Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following deadly cross-border attacks. Qatar confirms mediation efforts between both nations.
Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following a series of intense cross-border clashes that left dozens dead, officials confirmed on Monday. The agreement, brokered by Qatar, comes after Pakistan’s defence chief urged the Taliban to halt militant incursions from Afghan soil.
According to Pakistan’s military, more than 30 people were killed in overnight attacks near the Chaman and Torkham borders. Islamabad accused Afghan-based militants of targeting civilian and security installations. Kabul has yet to issue an official statement, but Afghan Taliban representatives have reportedly assured cooperation to de-escalate tensions.
The ceasefire was confirmed by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which said both countries had “agreed to halt hostilities and establish a joint mechanism for future communication.” Analysts believe Qatar’s involvement underscores the growing diplomatic interest in stabilizing the Pakistan-Afghanistan frontier.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister stated that long-term peace “depends on the Taliban’s ability to control militant networks operating within Afghanistan.” The issue of border management and refugee movements has also been brought to the table.
The recent escalation marks one of the deadliest border episodes since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. Experts warn that any prolonged conflict could undermine regional stability and trade routes connecting South and Central Asia.
Security officials said both sides will maintain communication through military channels to ensure that the ceasefire holds in the coming days.