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March 05, 2025 – Afghanistan –
Three Afghan journalists were injured on March 20, 2025, when Pakistani forces launched mortar fire near the Torkham border crossing, a volatile zone between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The journalists were on assignment reporting on the ongoing closure of the key trade and transit route when the incident occurred. The attack marks a dangerous escalation in cross-border tensions and highlights the increasing risks journalists face in conflict zones.
The mortar rounds struck Nangarhar province, near the Torkham crossing, which has been closed for several weeks amid political and military friction between the two countries. The journalists, reporting for Afghan media outlets, were reportedly standing at a relatively safe distance but were still injured by the shelling. Their condition has been described as stable, with one reporter sustaining more serious injuries and receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Local officials and witnesses confirmed that Pakistani border troops initiated the shelling, although the motive remains unclear. Afghan authorities strongly condemned the incident, calling it a violation of international norms and a direct attack on press freedom. They demanded accountability and assurances of safety for media workers operating in the region.
The incident comes at a time of mounting strain between Afghanistan and Pakistan, particularly over border control, militant movements, and refugee returns. The Torkham crossing—one of the busiest border points for trade and migration—has been a flashpoint, with closures affecting thousands of travelers and traders.
Journalists covering these developments are increasingly at risk. Afghanistan’s media landscape, already under pressure from economic collapse and Taliban-imposed restrictions, is now facing external threats as well. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) have both condemned the attack and called for an investigation. They urged Pakistani authorities to respect the neutrality of journalists and ensure such incidents are not repeated.
This episode underscores the vulnerability of journalists in conflict-prone areas and the growing disregard for their safety by state actors. As tensions persist along the border, the risks for those reporting from the frontlines continue to grow.
Reference –
https://www.washingtontimes.com/multimedia/collection/pakistani-mortar-fire-injures-afghan-2025-03/
