Nangarhar, Afghanistan — A recent border clash between Taliban fighters and the Pakistani army has triggered fresh embarrassment for Islamabad. In a shocking turn, Taliban militants reportedly captured Pakistani border posts, looted weapons, and even took away soldiers’ uniforms — including their pants.
Photos and videos shared by local journalists on social media show Taliban fighters in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province, proudly waving Pakistani military pants and firearms at a public intersection, treating them like war trophies. Reports suggest these items were taken from deserted Pakistani positions near the Durand Line.
In one viral video, fighters can be seen holding pants belonging to at least four Pakistani soldiers. The visual has become symbolic of what many analysts are calling not just a military setback, but a propaganda disaster for Pakistan.
This public display follows a fierce 48-hour exchange between Taliban forces and the Pakistani army earlier this week, after which a ceasefire was declared. Though official numbers are not confirmed, sources indicate that dozens of Pakistani soldiers may have been killed, alongside heavy losses on the Afghan side, including Taliban fighters and civilians.
The skirmish has only intensified tensions between Islamabad and Kabul, with many observers warning that the border region could face further destabilization if diplomatic channels fail to ease the friction.
Experts point out that such acts of symbolic humiliation, like parading military uniforms, not only damage morale but also tarnish a country’s international standing. As Taliban fighters grow bolder along the border, Pakistan’s strategic and political challenges in the region are becoming increasingly complex.