KABUL: Fighting broke out along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border after the Taliban confirmed attacks on Pakistani forces in multiple northern mountainous areas.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reported 58 Pakistani soldiers killed and around 30 wounded.

At least nine Taliban fighters died, and 16 to 18 others were injured.

The Taliban said the strikes were in retaliation for Pakistan’s airspace violation and bombing of a market on Thursday.

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi called the attacks unprovoked and targeting civilians, warning of a strong military response.

The clashes, involving small arms and artillery, occurred in Kunar-Kurram and other northern border areas.

Pakistan closed the Torkham and Chaman border crossings, leaving hundreds of trucks stranded.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, visiting India, stressed Afghanistan has no issues with Pakistan’s people or leadership but defended defending its territory.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar urged both sides to exercise restraint and prioritize dialogue.