Story perspectives

Taliban-Pakistan Clashes Kill Children, Ignite Regional Tensions

3/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Clashes between Afghanistan's Taliban forces and Pakistan's armed forces have killed at least two children and injured ten others in southeastern Afghanistan during the third week of fighting.
Mortar shells fired from Pakistan hit Khost province.
Pakistan targeted Afghan positions, claiming heavy losses.
Afghanistan's Deputy Prime Minister expressed regret over civilian casualties.
Pakistan's president condemned Afghanistan's drone attacks on civilian areas.

History

Historical Context

The Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880) arose from British efforts to control Afghanistan amid the Great Game with Russia. Following the Treaty of Gandamak in 1879, Afghanistan lost control over its foreign affairs. The conflict's legacy persists today, as ongoing clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistan reflect historical border tensions and the region's enduring instability, raising humanitarian and security concerns.

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Story summary

Clashes between Afghanistan's Taliban forces and Pakistan's armed forces have killed at least two children and injured ten others in southeastern Afghanistan during the third week of fighting.
Mortar shells fired from Pakistan hit Khost province.
Pakistan targeted Afghan positions, claiming heavy losses.
Afghanistan's Deputy Prime Minister expressed regret over civilian casualties.
Pakistan's president condemned Afghanistan's drone attacks on civilian areas.

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