Tajikistan blames Afghanistan for deadly cross-border attack

WEB DESK: Tajikistan has condemned a deadly cross-border attack that killed three Chinese nationals in the Khatlon region, urging the de facto Afghan authorities to take immediate action against armed groups operating from their territory.

According to Tajik officials, the attack took place on the night of November 26, 2025, when an armed group launched an assault from inside Afghanistan on a workers’ camp belonging to LLC Shohin SM. The camp lies within the jurisdiction of the 1st Border Guard Post “Istiqlol” of the “Yol” Border Detachment, an area that has witnessed previous security concerns due to its proximity to the Afghan frontier.

Authorities said the assailants used an unmanned aerial vehicle fitted with grenades and firearms, enabling them to strike the facility with precision. The attack killed three Chinese employees working with the private company, marking one of the most serious cross-border security incidents in recent years.

It was said that the strike occurred despite Tajikistan’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security and maintain stability along the shared border. Officials noted that criminal and militant groups continue to exploit the security vacuum inside Afghanistan, posing persistent threats to regional peace.

In a sharply worded statement, Tajikistan expressed “deep concern” and “strong condemnation,” calling the assault an act of terrorism. The government urged the Afghan authorities to take “effective and immediate measures” to stop such groups from launching attacks and to ensure the protection of both Tajik and foreign personnel working in the region.

The incident is expected to heighten diplomatic pressure on Kabul as regional states increasingly demand action against militants believed to be operating freely within Afghan territory.