Pakistan’s foreign ministry summoned an Indian diplomat on Saturday, protesting the killing of two Pakistani civilians near the border, accusing Indian forces of using “unprovoked lethal force against unarmed civilians.” The incident occurred on Friday when the Border Security Force (BSF) fired near the international frontier, killing the two men, according to Pakistani security sources. The protest comes amid heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, which have seen periodic clashes along the Line of Control in Kashmir.
The Pakistani government has called for an immediate investigation into the incident, emphasizing the use of lethal force against civilians. The victims were identified as local residents near the border, and their families have been informed. The Indian side has not yet issued a formal statement, though officials have previously denied using excessive force in such encounters. The incident follows a series of border skirmishes in recent months, with both sides accusing each other of provocative actions.
This is not the first time the two countries have faced such incidents. In 2023, a similar border clash resulted in the deaths of three Pakistani civilians, prompting a diplomatic protest and a temporary suspension of border talks. The current situation adds to the ongoing diplomatic strain, with both nations struggling to balance security concerns with regional stability. The incident underscores the fragile nature of their relationship, particularly in the context of unresolved territorial disputes and historical tensions.
