Afghanistan releases Pakistani soldiers to Saudi negotiators
Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has handed over three detained Pakistani soldiers to a Saudi delegation, months after the men were captured during violent border clashes between the two countries.
Government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the soldiers were taken into custody on October 12 last year amid exchanges of fire along the disputed frontier. He confirmed in a statement posted on X that the detainees were released and transferred to representatives from Saudi Arabia, which acted as mediator in the matter.
Mujahid described the move as consistent with Kabul’s policy of maintaining constructive relations with other nations. He added that the decision was made in consideration of the holy month of Ramadan and in response to what he called a request from the “brotherly country” of Saudi Arabia.
Islamabad has not yet issued an official response to the development. However, diplomatic sources say the handover could help ease months of strain between Afghanistan and Pakistan, whose ties have been tested by repeated cross-border incidents.
Tensions escalated last year after both sides accused each other of supporting militant activity across the porous frontier, particularly along the contested Durand Line. Several deadly skirmishes led to casualties among security forces and civilians, prompting border closures and trade disruptions.
Saudi Arabia has previously played a quiet diplomatic role in regional disputes and maintains close ties with both Kabul and Islamabad. Analysts say Riyadh’s involvement in securing the soldiers’ release reflects its broader effort to promote stability in the region.
The transfer of the detainees may open the door to renewed dialogue between Afghan and Pakistani officials, although deep-rooted security concerns and mistrust remain unresolved.
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