Afghanistan and Pakistan have pledged to respect a ceasefire amid ongoing violence that has resulted in dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries. Brokered by Qatar and Turkey, the ceasefire takes effect immediately and aims to halt hostilities between the two nations, which started escalating earlier this month as both sides accused each other of aggression. Afghanistan denies harboring militants conducting cross-border attacks, while Pakistan has enhanced its military capabilities since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021.
Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s chief spokesperson, indicated a positive outcome from talks in Doha, where a bilateral agreement was established to prevent hostilities and support for militant groups. A mechanism for addressing disputes will be set up with the help of mediators. Pakistan’s Defense Minister confirmed that cross-border terrorism would cease immediately, emphasizing respect for each other’s sovereignty.
The fighting has severely disrupted lives, particularly affecting residents near the 2,611-kilometer border, which Afghanistan does not recognize. As a result, trade routes have been limited, and many locals have been displaced. While some refugees expressed relief at the ceasefire, businesses reliant on open borders voiced concerns about restrictions and the need for trade to resume. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul for further discussions.
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