What's happened
Afghan and Pakistani forces have exchanged cross-border fire amid renewed fighting that has killed and wounded civilians. Peace talks mediated by China earlier this month have not prevented violence from continuing along the border, with Afghan officials accusing Pakistan of targeting civilian sites and Pakistan denying those claims.
What's behind the headline?
What is happening now
- Cross-border exchanges are ongoing as both sides accuse the other of strikes on civilian facilities.
- The latest attack has targeted a university and other civilian sites, heightening civilian casualties.
What this means
- The diplomacy process is under strain as violence continues despite mediation.
- International observers warn that sustained fighting risks destabilising the region and complicating aid deliveries.
Reader takeaway
- The situation remains volatile; readers should monitor official casualty figures and statements from both governments as the talks proceed.
How we got here
The violence follows months of cross-border fighting after Afghanistan launched a cross-border attack on Pakistan in retaliation for Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghanistan. In April, China mediated peace talks in Urumqi, but clashes have persisted, including an attack on a university in Asadabad and other districts in Kunar province.
Our analysis
AP News reports from Mon, 04 May 2026; Guardian coverage from Tue, 28 Apr 2026; Independent reporting from Mon, 27 Apr 2026; AP News follow-up on 27 Apr 2026.
Go deeper
- Is the violence likely to derail China-mediated talks?
- What is the current civilian toll and displacement trend?
- Which locations are most affected by the cross-border strikes?
More on these topics
-
Afghanistan - Country in South Asia
Afghanistan, officially the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country at the crossroads of Central and South Asia.
-
Pakistan - Country in South Asia
Pakistan, officially the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, is a country in South Asia. It is the world's fifth-most populous country with a population exceeding 212.2 million. It is the 33rd-largest country by area, spanning 881,913 square kilometres.
-
Kunar Province - Province of Afghanistan
Kunar is one of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan, located in the northeastern part of the country. Its capital is Asadabad. Its population is estimated to be 508,224. It is one of the four "N2KL" provinces.
-
People's Republic of China - Country in East Asia
China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.