In a firm diplomatic response to escalating border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, India has reiterated its support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and accused Pakistan of sponsoring terrorism and deflecting blame for its internal issues.

Escalation of Border Tensions

The recent hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan intensified on October 9, 2025, when Pakistan launched airstrikes targeting areas in Afghanistan, including Kabul, Khost, Jalalabad, and Paktika. These strikes were reportedly aimed at Pakistani Taliban (TTP) militants operating from Afghan soil. In retaliation, Afghan forces engaged in combat along the Durand Line, particularly in the Spin Boldak region of Kandahar. The clashes resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reporting at least 18 deaths and over 360 injuries as of October 16, 2025 Reuters.

The violence prompted both nations to agree to a 48-hour ceasefire on October 15, 2025. However, the truce has been fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violating the agreement Politico.

India’s Diplomatic Stance

In a press briefing on October 16, 2025, Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed India’s strong support for Afghanistan. He stated, “Three things are clear – one, that Pakistan hosts terrorist organizations and sponsors terrorist activities; two, it is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbors for its own internal failures; and three, Pakistan is infuriated with Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its own territories.”

Jaiswal also condemned the civilian casualties resulting from the border clashes and reaffirmed India’s commitment to Afghanistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence Hindustan Times.

Diplomatic Engagement with the Taliban

The recent border tensions coincided with the visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India. During his visit, Muttaqi advocated for increased trade between Afghanistan and India, including the reopening of the Attari-Wagah border and the use of the Chabahar port route. He also announced plans for the Taliban to send diplomats to the Afghan embassy in New Delhi, signaling a potential shift towards formal diplomatic relations between the two countries The Times of India+1.

While India has not formally recognized the Taliban-led government, the reopening of the Indian embassy in Kabul in June 2022 and the planned upgrade to a full embassy reflect a pragmatic approach to regional diplomacy.

Pakistan’s Response

Pakistan has denied the allegations of sponsoring terrorism and has accused India of supporting the Taliban as a proxy to destabilize Pakistan. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif claimed that the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan is acting on behalf of India, intensifying regional tensions amid the fragile ceasefire The Economic Times.

Humanitarian Impact

The border clashes have had a severe humanitarian impact, particularly in the Spin Boldak region. Afghan authorities reported that at least 40 civilians were killed before the ceasefire took effect. Humanitarian organizations have expressed concern over the escalating violence and its effects on local populations Reuters.

Conclusion

India’s support for Afghanistan amidst the border clashes with Pakistan underscores a strategic alignment between the two nations, driven by shared concerns over regional security and the fight against terrorism. While the situation remains volatile, India’s diplomatic engagement with the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan indicates a nuanced approach to regional geopolitics. The evolving dynamics between India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan will continue to shape the security landscape of South Asia in the coming months.