Tensions have flared between Pakistani and Afghan security forces at the Torkham border crossing, a key transit point between the two countries.
Afghanistan’s Ministry of Interior confirmed that one member of its security forces was killed and two others injured in overnight clashes.
The violence comes after Pakistan closed the border last month over a dispute concerning Afghanistan’s construction of a new border post.
The clashes began on the first working day of Ramadan, when food imports from Pakistan to Afghanistan are typically at their peak.
This has left around 5,000 trucks filled with essential goods stranded on both sides of the border, trapped in harsh winter conditions.
The closure of Torkham could worsen the already fragile situation in Afghanistan, where millions are facing hunger, and half the population is in desperate need of humanitarian aid, according to the United Nations.
The Torkham border has been a flashpoint for violence before, with both countries closing the crossing following deadly shootings and crossfire.
Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of harboring militants who launch attacks across the border a claim that the Taliban government denies.
Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry has accused Pakistan of initiating the violence, while Pakistan claims the Taliban opened fire first.
The border closure has already led to significant financial losses, with Pakistan losing an estimated $15 million and Afghan traders suffering losses of around $500,000 daily, according to local business leaders.
The ongoing conflict between the two nations continues to put both the economy and security of the region at risk.
