Tensions have escalated at the Torkham border, with clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan forces, as sources said that both sides have resorted to using small and large arms during exchanges of fire.

A significant five-hour fire exchange occurred on Monday, resulting in injuries to three Frontier Corps personnel.

Three Afghan soldiers were reported killed during retaliatory actions by security forces.

The situation has been tense since Afghan forces began “suspicious” construction activities near the Torkham border more than a week ago, which further resulted in the closure of all traffic.

The border remained closed for trade activities and pedestrian movement for the 10th consecutive day on Monday.

The Torkham crossing point, a crucial land trade route between Pakistan and Afghanistan, has faced repeated closures in recent years due to border tensions, skirmishes, and armed conflicts.

In August, the Torkham border was closed for three days after the Afghan Taliban stated they were looking into claims of Pakistani fighter jets allegedly breaching Afghan airspace over Nangarhar and Kunar provinces.

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The border was also closed on February 29 for trade activities and pedestrian movement, leaving travellers stranded on both sides and causing significant financial losses to traders amounting to millions of rupees.