Web Desk: Pakistan’s armed forces have taken full control of a 32-square-kilometre area along the Afghan border, consolidating Taliban’s position by installing a fortified fence and restricting all unauthorised access.
The move follows the capture of the Gudwana Enclave, a strategically located location that had previously been under the control of the Afghan Taliban. Officials said troops acted swiftly after the takeover, reinforcing defensive positions and completing the fencing to prevent infiltration.
After seizing the enclave, Pakistani forces focused on stabilising the area. They deployed additional personnel, established surveillance points and accelerated construction of border barriers.
Moreover, military engineers worked to seal off crossing routes that had long been used for movement between the two countries. As a result, officials say the newly fenced area now remains under constant monitoring.
A senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the aim was to “ensure long-term control and eliminate any gaps that could be exploited by terrorist elements.”
However, the development comes amid renewed friction between Pakistan and Afghanistan. In recent months, border areas have witnessed intermittent clashes involving security forces from both sides.
According to official and independent estimates, dozens of personnel and civilians have been killed or injured in these exchanges. Pakistan has repeatedly accused Taliban regime of failing to curb cross-border terrorist activity, while Afghan officials have rejected the claims and criticised Pakistan’s border measures.
Despite in past, Islamabad and Kabul have continued bilateral engagements to manage the situation. Military and diplomatic officials have held multiple flag meetings aimed at de-escalation.
In addition, both countries had participated in multilateral forums involving regional stakeholders, including platforms supported by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. These discussions have focused on border security, counterterrorism cooperation and mechanisms to prevent further escalation.
Despite these efforts, progress has remained limited, as mutual distrust persists.
Pakistan’s move to secure the Gudwana Enclave reflects a broader strategy to assert control over contested border area. By fencing and fortifying the area, authorities aim to reduce unauthorised crossings and demonstrate a firm stance on territorial security.
