Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan are rapidly escalating into war. The Pakistani military claims that at least 228 Afghan soldiers have been killed and 314 wounded in recent air and ground attacks. Islamabad has also said it has destroyed 74 Afghan posts along the border and captured 18.
However, the ruling Taliban government in Kabul rejected this account, saying that eight of their soldiers have been killed and 11 wounded in Pakistani attacks so far.
Al Jazeera’s Kamal Haider reported from Peshawar that heavy fighting was still ongoing on the border after noon on Friday. Pakistan was simultaneously carrying out air strikes, while counter-attacks were also being carried out from Afghan territory. There were reports of significant casualties on both sides.