Relevance: GS II (International Relations) | Source: The Hindu / Indian Express

1. What is the Big News?

On February 27, 2026, the long-standing tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan turned into a state of “open war.”

• The Conflict: After several border clashes, Pakistan conducted airstrikes on major Afghan cities like Kabul and Kandahar. In response, Afghanistan launched attacks on Pakistani border posts.
• Current Status: Pakistan has officially declared “open war” and launched a military offensive named Operation Ghazab Lil Haq.

2. Why are they Fighting? 

To understand this war for UPSC, we need to look at three main logical points:

• The Durand Line Dispute: This is a 2,640 km border drawn by the British in 1893. Pakistan says it is the official border, but Afghanistan has never accepted it. The line cuts right through the Pashtun tribes, separating families.
• The TTP Factor: Pakistan accuses the Taliban of giving a “safe home” to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a group that carries out terror attacks inside Pakistan. The Taliban denies this.
• Trade and Ego: Pakistan often closes the Torkham border (the main trade gate) to “punish” landlocked Afghanistan. This has made the Afghan people very angry. Also, the Taliban is now building its own friendship with India, which makes Pakistan feel jealous and insecure.

3. Why is this Important for India?

• Border Security: Any war in our neighbourhood is a risk. India is watching closely to ensure that the violence doesn’t spill over into our borders.
• Humanitarian Help: India has always been a friend to the Afghan people, providing wheat and medicines. We want a peaceful Afghanistan that is not controlled by any single country.

UPSC Value Box

With reference to the ‘Durand Line’ and the geopolitical tensions in South Asia, consider the following statements:

1. The Durand Line was established in 1893 as a boundary between British India and the Emirate of Afghanistan.
2. The current Taliban administration is the first Afghan government to formally recognize the Durand Line as a permanent border.
3. Torkham is a major border crossing and trade corridor located between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (b)