Cross-border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated into what Pakistan is calling an "open war," with both nations conducting drone and air strikes that have resulted in civilian casualties and heightened regional tensions.

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari said Saturday that Afghanistan's Taliban government had "crossed a red line" by launching drone attacks on civilian areas in Pakistan. Pakistan reported intercepting the drones on Friday, but falling debris injured two children in Quetta and two others elsewhere in the country. The Afghan Taliban government claimed its air force targeted military installations near Islamabad and in northwestern Pakistan in response to Pakistani airstrikes.

The Afghan government accused Pakistan of conducting airstrikes in Kabul and eastern Afghanistan on Friday, reporting at least six civilian deaths and 15 injuries. Afghan officials also said Pakistani aircraft struck fuel depots belonging to Kam Air near Kandahar airport, which services civilian and U.N. flights. Pakistan denied targeting civilians, stating its operations focus on Pakistani Taliban militants and their support networks.

The fighting, which began late last month, represents the deadliest conflict yet between the neighboring countries. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan's Taliban government of harboring Pakistani militant groups that conduct cross-border attacks, while Kabul denies these allegations. A roadside bomb targeting Pakistani police killed seven officers Friday in northwestern Pakistan's Lakki Mawat district.

China and Turkey are attempting to broker a ceasefire between the two nations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged peaceful resolution Friday, warning that force worsens tensions and threatens regional stability. China has deployed a special envoy to shuttle between both countries to promote restraint. A previous Qatari-mediated ceasefire in October temporarily reduced tensions, but subsequent talks in Turkey failed to produce a lasting agreement.

The escalating conflict adds to regional instability concerns as the international community monitors multiple ongoing conflicts. Both nations share a porous border that has historically been difficult to control, complicating efforts to prevent cross-border militant activity and maintain peaceful relations.