Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban government have reached an agreement for an immediate ceasefire after more than a week of severe border clashes. Mediated by Qatar and Turkey, the agreement includes establishing mechanisms to foster lasting peace and stability between the two nations.
A Taliban spokesperson emphasized the importance of halting “hostile actions,” while Pakistan’s foreign minister hailed the ceasefire as a crucial “first step in the right direction.” Both countries report inflicting significant casualties during the recent hostilities, the most serious since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
Tensions have been high, with Pakistan accusing the Taliban of harboring militant groups responsible for attacks within Pakistan, a claim the Taliban denies. The recent escalation followed allegations by the Taliban that Pakistan had conducted attacks on Kabul. Reports had circulated suggesting these blasts targeted Noor Wali Mehsud, the leader of the Pakistan Taliban, though the group released an unverified voice note claiming he is alive.
In the ensuing days, Afghan troops reportedly fired on Pakistani border posts, leading to retaliatory mortar fire and drone strikes from Pakistan. According to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, at least three dozen Afghan civilians were killed, with hundreds more injured.
A temporary truce was declared on Wednesday night while delegations met in Doha, but cross-border strikes persisted. The Taliban stated on Friday that Pakistan had carried out an air strike resulting in eight fatalities, including three local cricketers.
Under the terms of the new ceasefire, the Taliban has committed not to support groups launching attacks against Pakistan. Both nations have agreed to cease targeting each other’s security forces, civilians, and critical infrastructure.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, expressed that the ceasefire would immediately halt terrorism originating from Afghanistan onto Pakistani soil. Further discussions are scheduled to take place in Istanbul next week.
Historically, Pakistan was a significant supporter of the Taliban before their ousting in 2001. However, relations have been strained by Pakistan’s accusations that the group provides refuge to the Pakistan Taliban, which has been engaged in an insurgency against Pakistani forces. The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project reports that the Pakistan Taliban has been responsible for at least 600 attacks on Pakistani forces over the past year.
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