top of page
Tensions on the Edge: What’s Happening Between Pakistan and Afghanistan

Tensions on the Edge: What’s Happening Between Pakistan and Afghanistan

13 November 2025

Paul Francis

Want your article or story on our site? Contact us here

Designed to Be Replaced: How Planned Obsolescence Fuels Waste in the Digital Age
The Streaming Divide: Why Pop Superstars Earn Millions While Most Musicians Struggle to Survive
Landmark Negligence Cases That Changed Personal Injury Law

The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has always been uneasy, but in recent weeks it has taken a serious turn. Cross-border clashes, air strikes, failed peace talks and growing accusations have pushed both nations into one of their most dangerous stand-offs in years. For many observers, the dispute has become a test of whether the region can avoid another long and destabilising conflict.


Helicopter flying over a sandy desert with rocky mountains in the background. Clear blue sky, conveying a sense of adventure and isolation.

A Fragile Border and a Growing Crisis

The Pakistan–Afghanistan border stretches for more than 1,600 miles across harsh mountains and remote valleys. It is one of the most difficult borders in the world to control. Communities on both sides share cultural and ethnic ties, yet it is also an area long associated with insurgency, smuggling and shifting alliances.


Tensions rose sharply in October 2025 after Pakistan accused militants based in Afghanistan of launching deadly attacks on its territory. The main group blamed was the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an organisation ideologically aligned with the Afghan Taliban. Islamabad claims that the TTP uses Afghan soil as a safe haven to regroup and plan strikes. The Afghan government, run by the Taliban since 2021, has repeatedly denied this, insisting it does not allow any group to attack a neighbouring country.


In response to a series of cross-border raids, Pakistan carried out air strikes inside Afghanistan, reportedly targeting militant positions near Kabul and across border provinces such as Khost and Paktika. Afghanistan retaliated with its own artillery fire along the frontier, resulting in casualties on both sides.


Diplomatic Frustration and Failed Talks

The violence sparked international concern, prompting Qatar and Turkey to step in as mediators. Both countries helped broker a temporary ceasefire in mid-October, but the calm was short-lived. Within weeks, the agreement had collapsed, with each side accusing the other of breaking the terms.


Talks held in Istanbul were meant to restore dialogue, yet they ended in stalemate. Pakistan demanded firm guarantees that militants operating from Afghanistan would be disarmed or expelled. Afghanistan, in turn, accused Pakistan of violating its sovereignty with repeated air operations. Efforts by Iran to offer mediation have also yet to produce results.


This latest breakdown highlights a deeper mistrust between the two governments. Pakistan once saw the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan as a strategic opportunity to ensure a friendly regime on its western border. Instead, the relationship has soured, with Islamabad viewing the Taliban’s inability to rein in the TTP as a major threat to its internal security.


Why the Situation Matters

The border conflict is more than a local issue; it has major implications for the entire region. Pakistan’s western frontier has long been volatile, and instability there risks spilling into its own border provinces such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. If the violence continues, Pakistan may face a surge of displaced civilians and renewed domestic attacks from TTP factions.


Camouflage uniform with Pakistan flag patch, "Special Services Wing" badge, and pencil in pocket. Hand holding a paper, suggesting readiness.

For Afghanistan, the fighting threatens what remains of its already fragile economy. Cross-border trade routes with Pakistan are crucial lifelines for goods, fuel and humanitarian supplies. When the border closes or becomes unsafe, Afghan markets suffer shortages and price spikes, deepening the country’s ongoing economic crisis.


Neighbouring countries are also on alert. Iran, which shares a long border with both Afghanistan and Pakistan, has offered to mediate out of concern that the fighting could spread or disrupt trade routes. Further north, Central Asian nations such as Uzbekistan and Tajikistan are worried about militant movements and refugee flows across their southern borders.


Even China is watching closely. It has invested heavily in Pakistan’s infrastructure through the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship element of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative. Escalating violence could undermine those projects and threaten Chinese personnel working in the region.


The Broader Picture: Security and Trust


Flags of Afghanistan and Pakistan on a detailed map with mountains, highlighted by warm sunlight, creating a diplomatic tone.

At the heart of the crisis is a question of control. Pakistan believes that the Afghan Taliban can restrain militant groups operating from within its borders, but evidence so far suggests that the Taliban either cannot or will not take decisive action. Some analysts argue that the Afghan leadership faces internal divisions, with hardline elements unwilling to confront groups that once fought alongside them.


Meanwhile, Pakistan’s military leadership faces pressure at home to show strength. Repeated attacks by the TTP have killed hundreds of Pakistani soldiers and civilians over the past two years. Failure to respond decisively could be seen as weakness by a population already frustrated with economic hardship and political instability.


Both sides, then, are trapped in a cycle of accusation and retaliation, where every incident deepens mistrust.


Possible Futures

If diplomacy fails, further escalation remains a real risk. More air strikes or cross-border raids could ignite a wider conflict that neither country can afford. However, there are also reasons for cautious optimism. Regional powers, including Turkey, Qatar and Iran, have a vested interest in avoiding another prolonged war. Their mediation efforts, while limited so far, may keep communication channels open.


Trade could also serve as a bridge rather than a barrier. Pakistan and Afghanistan have both expressed interest in expanding economic cooperation through transit agreements and energy links. If stability can be restored, these could offer incentives for restraint.


The real test will be whether both governments can separate militant issues from broader political disputes. Without that, the ceasefire agreements will remain temporary, and the border will continue to be a flashpoint for years to come.


Impact Beyond the Border

The outcome of this conflict could shape regional security for the foreseeable future. A stable Afghanistan benefits not only Pakistan but also Central Asia and even Europe, which has faced migration pressures after every major Afghan crisis. Conversely, a breakdown in relations could fuel extremism, disrupt trade routes and draw in larger powers seeking influence.


For now, the international community is urging restraint. The question is whether Pakistan and Afghanistan can find common ground before local skirmishes evolve into something much larger.

Current Most Read

Tensions on the Edge: What’s Happening Between Pakistan and Afghanistan
Designed to Be Replaced: How Planned Obsolescence Fuels Waste in the Digital Age
The Streaming Divide: Why Pop Superstars Earn Millions While Most Musicians Struggle to Survive

2024 Golden Globe Awards: Oppenheimer Takes the Spotlight with Five Wins

  • Writer: Paul Francis
    Paul Francis
  • Jan 8, 2024
  • 5 min read

Illustration of Margot Robbie as Barbie
Created with Leonardo AI

In a dazzling night of glitz and glamour, the 2024 Golden Globe Awards celebrated the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry. The big winner of the evening was undoubted "Oppenheimer," which took home five prestigious awards, including the top honour for Best Film – Drama. The star-studded event also featured notable victories for outstanding performances, with Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr. receiving accolades for their acting prowess. Christopher Nolan added to the film's success by clinching the award for Best Director.


Succession Dominates TV Categories with a Historic Win

The acclaimed fourth and final season of "Succession" made a resounding impact in the TV categories, securing the most wins of the night. The gripping saga of the Roy family earned the title of Best TV Series – Drama, with Sarah Snook receiving the award for Best Female Actor in a TV Series – Drama. The show's success continued to solidify its place as one of the most lauded series in recent years.


Barbie's Box Office Triumph

In a groundbreaking moment, "Barbie" won the inaugural Cinematic and Box Office Achievement award, recognizing its exceptional performance at the global box office. Grossing an impressive $1.4 billion worldwide, "Barbie" stood out among the nominees, including "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3" and "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse."


Diversity and Milestones: Lily Gladstone's Historic Win

The Golden Globes made history with Lily Gladstone's win for Best Female Actor in a Film – Drama. Her stellar performance in "Killers of the Flower Moon" not only earned her a well-deserved accolade but also marked a historic moment as the first indigenous person to receive this honour. The film, directed by Martin Scorsese, added to its success by claiming the Best Original Song award for "What Was I Made For?" by Billie Eilish and Finneas.


Diverse Wins and Outstanding Achievements

The evening was filled with diverse wins, with multiple films taking home two awards each, including "Anatomy of a Fall," "The Holdovers," and "Poor Things." The Best Animated Film category saw "The Boy and the Heron" soaring to victory, while Ludwig Göransson's evocative score in "Oppenheimer" earned him the Best Original Score in a Film award.


Acting Triumphs: Cillian Murphy, Emma Stone, and More

Cillian Murphy's riveting performance in "Oppenheimer" secured him the Best Male Actor in a Film – Drama award, while Emma Stone charmed her way to victory as the Best Female Actor in a Film – Musical or Comedy for her role in "Poor Things." Paul Giamatti's comedic prowess in "The Holdovers" earned him the Best Male Actor in a Film – Musical or Comedy award.


Acknowledging Excellence in Television

The TV categories showcased the best of the small screen, with standout wins for "The Bear" in the TV Series – Musical or Comedy category, and "Beef" claiming the top spot in the Best Limited TV Series, Anthology Series, or TV Movie category.



The 2024 Golden Globe Awards celebrated excellence, diversity, and groundbreaking achievements in the world of entertainment. From historic wins to outstanding performances, the winners of the night have left an indelible mark on the industry, promising an exciting future for film and television. As we applaud their triumphs, we eagerly anticipate the continued innovation and brilliance that the world of entertainment has in store for us. Here is a full list of the Winners and nominees.


Best film – drama

  • Oppenheimer – WINNER

  • Killers of the Flower Moon

  • Maestro

  • Past Lives

  • The Zone of Interest

  • Anatomy of a Fall


Best female actor in a film – drama

  • Lily Gladstone, Killers of the Flower Moon – WINNER

  • Carey Mulligan, Maestro

  • Sandra Hüller, Anatomy of a Fall

  • Annette Bening, Nyad

  • Greta Lee, Past Lives

  • Cailee Spaeny, Priscilla


Best film – musical or comedy

  • Barbie

  • Poor Things – WINNER

  • American Fiction

  • The Holdovers

  • May December

  • Air


Best male actor in a film – musical or comedy

  • Nicolas Cage, Dream Scenario

  • Timothée Chalamet, Wonka

  • Matt Damon, Air

  • Paul Giamatti, The Holdovers – WINNER

  • Joaquin Phoenix, Beau Is Afraid

  • Jeffrey Wright, American Fiction


Best TV series – drama

  • 1923

  • The Crown

  • The Diplomat

  • The Last of Us

  • The Morning Show

  • Succession – WINNER


Best female actor in a TV series – drama

  • Helen Mirren, 1923

  • Bella Ramsey, The Last of Us

  • Keri Russell, The Diplomat

  • Sarah Snook, Succession – WINNER

  • Imelda Staunton, The Crown

  • Emma Stone, The Curse


Best TV series – musical or comedy

  • The Bear – WINNER

  • Ted Lasso

  • Abbott Elementary

  • Jury Duty

  • Only Murders in the Building

  • Barry


Best limited TV series, anthology series or TV movie

  • All the Light We Cannot See

  • Beef – WINNER

  • Daisy Jones & the Six

  • Fargo

  • Fellow Travelers

  • Lessons in Chemistry


Cinematic and box office achievement

  • Barbie – WINNER

  • Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3

  • John Wick: Chapter 4

  • Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

  • Oppenheimer

  • Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

  • The Super Mario Bros Movie

  • Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour


Best original song in a film

  • Addicted to Romance by Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa (She Came to Me)

  • Dance the Night by Caroline Ailin, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt (Barbie)

  • I’m Just Ken by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt (Barbie)

  • Peaches by Jack Black, Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic, Eric Osmond and John Spiker (The Super Mario Bros Movie)

  • Road to Freedom by Lenny Kravitz (Rustin)

  • What Was I Made For? by Billie Eilish and Finneas (Barbie) – WINNER


Best original score in a film

  • Ludwig Göransson, Oppenheimer – WINNER

  • Jerskin Fendrix, Poor Things

  • Robbie Robertson, Killers of the Flower Moon

  • Mica Levi, The Zone of Interest

  • Daniel Pemberton, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

  • Joe Hisaishi, The Boy and the Heron


Best male actor in a film – drama

  • Bradley Cooper, Maestro

  • Cillian Murphy, Oppenheimer – WINNER

  • Leonardo DiCaprio, Killers of the Flower Moon

  • Colman Domingo, Rustin

  • Andrew Scott, All of Us Strangers

  • Barry Keoghan, Saltburn


Best female actor in a film – musical or comedy

  • Fantasia Barrino, The Color Purple

  • Jennifer Lawrence, No Hard Feelings

  • Natalie Portman, May December

  • Alma Pöysti, Fallen Leaves

  • Margot Robbie, Barbie

  • Emma Stone, Poor Things – WINNER


Best director in a film

  • Bradley Cooper, Maestro

  • Greta Gerwig, Barbie

  • Yorgos Lanthimos, Poor Things

  • Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer – WINNER

  • Martin Scorsese, Killers of the Flower Moon

  • Celine Song, Past Lives


Best animated film

  • The Boy and the Heron – WINNER

  • Elemental

  • Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

  • The Super Mario Bros Movie

  • Suzume

  • Wish


Best male actor in a TV series – drama

  • Pedro Pascal, The Last of Us

  • Kieran Culkin, Succession – WINNER

  • Jeremy Strong, Succession

  • Brian Cox, Succession

  • Gary Oldman, Slow Horses

  • Dominic West, The Crown


Best female actor in a TV series – musical or comedy

  • Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs Maisel

  • Quinta Brunson, Abbott Elementary

  • Ayo Edebiri, The Bear – WINNER

  • Elle Fanning, The Great

  • Selena Gomez, Only Murders in the Building

  • Natasha Lyonne, Poker Face


Best non-English language film

  • Anatomy of a Fall – WINNER

  • Fallen Leaves

  • Io Capitano

  • Past Lives

  • Society of the Snow

  • The Zone of Interest


Best performance in stand-up comedy on TV

  • Ricky Gervais, Ricky Gervais Armageddon – WINNER

  • Trevor Noah, Where Was I

  • Chris Rock, Selective Outrage

  • Amy Schumer, Emergency Contact

  • Sarah Silverman, Sarah Silverman: Someone You Love

  • Wanda Sykes, I’m an Entertainer


Best male actor in a TV series – musical or comedy

  • Bill Hader, Barry

  • Steve Martin, Only Murders in the Building

  • Jason Segel, Shrinking

  • Martin Short, Only Murders in the Building

  • Jason Sudeikis, Ted Lasso

  • Jeremy Allen White, The Bear – WINNER


Best screenplay for a film

  • Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, Barbie

  • Tony McNamara, Poor Things

  • Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer

  • Eric Roth and Martin Scorsese, Killers of the Flower Moon

  • Celine Song, Past Lives

  • Justine Triet and Arthur Harari, Anatomy of a Fall – WINNER


Best supporting male actor in a TV series

  • Billy Crudup, The Morning Show

  • Matthew Macfadyen, Succession – WINNER

  • James Marsden, Jury Duty

  • Ebon Moss–Bachrach, The Bear

  • Alan Ruck, Succession

  • Alexander Skarsgård, Succession


Best supporting female actor in a TV series

  • Elizabeth Debicki, The Crown – WINNER

  • Abby Elliott, The Bear

  • Christina Ricci, Yellowjackets

  • J Smith-Cameron, Succession

  • Meryl Streep, Only Murders in the Building

  • Hannah Waddingham, Ted Lasso


Best male actor in a limited TV series, anthology series or TV movie

  • Matt Bomer, Fellow Travelers

  • Sam Claflin, Daisy Jones & the Six

  • Jon Hamm, Fargo

  • Woody Harrelson, White House Plumbers

  • David Oyelowo, Lawmen: Bass Reeves

  • Steven Yeun, Beef – WINNER


Best female actor in a limited TV series, anthology series or TV movie

  • Riley Keough, Daisy Jones & the Six

  • Brie Larson, Lessons in Chemistry

  • Elizabeth Olsen, Love & Death

  • Juno Temple, Fargo

  • Rachel Weisz, Dead Ringers

  • Ali Wong, Beef – WINNER


Best supporting male actor in a film

  • Willem Dafoe, Poor Things

  • Robert DeNiro, Killers of the Flower Moon

  • Robert Downey Jr, Oppenheimer – WINNER

  • Ryan Gosling, Barbie

  • Charles Melton, May December

  • Mark Ruffalo, Poor Things


Best supporting female actor in a film

  • Emily Blunt, Oppenheimer

  • Danielle Brooks, The Color Purple

  • Jodie Foster, Nyad

  • Julianne Moore, May December

  • Rosamund Pike, Saltburn

  • Da’Vine Joy Randolph, The Holdovers – WINNER

bottom of page