Afghanistan says 28 fighters were killed as it and Pakistan trade accusations over terrorism and cross-border violence, deepening a strain in relations between the neighbours.
Key facts
- Afghanistan says 28 fighters were killed.
- Afghanistan and Pakistan are trading accusations over terrorism and cross-border violence.
- Relations between the two countries are straining further.
- The developments were reported by Al Jazeera on 27 September 2026.
Afghanistan has said that 28 fighters were killed as it and neighbouring Pakistan traded accusations over terrorism and cross-border violence, according to Al Jazeera.
The report describes relations between the two countries straining further, with each side levelling accusations against the other over security along their shared frontier.
At the centre of the dispute are competing claims over terrorism and cross-border violence, issues that have long been a source of tension between Kabul and Islamabad.
Al Jazeera reported the figure of 28 fighters killed, though the outlet’s account did not provide further detail in the material available about the circumstances or precise location of the deaths.
The exchange of accusations reflects a broader deterioration in ties between the two governments, whose relationship has been repeatedly tested by security concerns near the border.
As of the reporting on 27 September 2026, both sides continued to blame each other, leaving the situation between the neighbours in a state of heightened friction.
Why it matters
Afghanistan and Pakistan share a long and often volatile border, and rising accusations over terrorism and cross-border violence can affect regional stability and the safety of communities on both sides. A further strain in relations between the two neighbours raises the risk of continued friction.
Frequently asked questions
How many fighters did Afghanistan say were killed?
Afghanistan said 28 fighters were killed, according to Al Jazeera.
What are Afghanistan and Pakistan accusing each other of?
According to Al Jazeera, the two countries are trading accusations over terrorism and cross-border violence.
What is the state of relations between the two countries?
Al Jazeera reported that relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan are straining further amid the exchange of accusations.

