Islamabad — Saudi Arabia has voiced concern over the recent escalation of tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, where Afghan forces reportedly carried out unprovoked firing that prompted a strong retaliatory response from the Pakistan Army. The statement from Riyadh marks the first major international reaction to the developing situation between the two neighboring Muslim countries.
According to reports, the clashes began after Afghan border troops initiated unprovoked fire at Pakistani positions, triggering a decisive response from Pakistani forces who targeted multiple Afghan posts. The exchange heightened tensions along the frontier, which has long been a flashpoint due to cross-border militant activities and territorial disputes.
In an official statement issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Kingdom expressed “deep concern” over the rising hostilities between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The ministry called on both sides to exercise restraint and to resolve their differences through dialogue, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.
“Saudi Arabia is following with concern the recent tensions and border clashes between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Afghanistan,” the statement read. “The Kingdom stresses the need for calm and the prioritization of peaceful means to address disputes.”
Diplomatic analysts interpret Riyadh’s response as a reflection of its broader interest in preserving stability within the Muslim world, particularly between two nations with which Saudi Arabia maintains close religious and political ties. The Kingdom has historically played a mediatory role in regional conflicts and is expected to encourage backchannel communications to de-escalate the situation.
Meanwhile, Pakistani officials have reiterated that the country’s armed forces acted strictly in defense after repeated provocations from the Afghan side. They emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to peaceful neighborly relations but will not tolerate any violations of its territorial sovereignty.
The Afghan interim government has yet to issue a comprehensive statement regarding the Saudi reaction, though limited responses from Kabul have accused Islamabad of overreacting. The situation remains tense, with border areas under high alert and reports of military reinforcement on both sides.
Regional observers warn that continued exchanges could not only destabilize bilateral relations but also complicate counterterrorism efforts and humanitarian coordination in border provinces already struggling with economic and refugee pressures.
As the international community calls for restraint, Saudi Arabia’s early and balanced statement is being viewed as an attempt to prevent the crisis from widening and to remind both Islamabad and Kabul of their responsibilities toward regional peace and Muslim solidarity.
