The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said at least 17 civilians were killed and 346 others wounded during recent clashes between Pakistani border forces and Taliban fighters in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province.

UNAMA added that in separate incidents in the provinces of Paktia, Paktika, Kunar, and Helmand, at least one person was killed and 15 civilians were injured.

The mission noted that casualty figures remain preliminary as data collection is ongoing and the actual toll may be higher.

UNAMA urged both sides to cease hostilities, stressing the need to protect civilians and prevent further loss of life amid escalating border tensions.