Pakistan and Afghanistan have renewed a ceasefire after weeks of deadly border clashes, mediated by Turkey and Qatar. Recent airstrikes by Pakistan in Afghanistan, including civilian casualties, have raised concerns over the truce’s durability, amid deep mutual mistrust and ongoing border tensions.
Pakistan, Afghanistan Agree to Renew Ceasefire Amid Rising Border Tensions
Pakistan and Afghanistan have once again agreed to a ceasefire following weeks of deadly cross-border clashes. The decision was reached during a meeting held in Doha, Qatar, according to a statement issued by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday (October 19), as reported by Reuters.
The Qatari ministry said the agreement was facilitated through the mediation of Turkey and Qatar, with both sides pledging to continue dialogue to ensure proper implementation of the truce and work toward making it permanent.
The renewed ceasefire comes after a sharp escalation in hostilities between the two neighboring countries. In recent weeks, Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghan territory reportedly killed several civilians, including local cricketers, prompting strong condemnation from Kabul. The Taliban government accused Islamabad of violating Afghan sovereignty, while Pakistan claimed it was targeting militant hideouts responsible for recent attacks on its border troops.
Earlier, a 48-hour ceasefire announced last Wednesday was quickly broken when Pakistan launched fresh air raids in eastern Afghanistan. As a result, analysts fear the latest truce may also prove short-lived unless both sides commit to de-escalation.
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have surged in recent months amid growing border violence and mutual accusations over harboring militants. Despite the renewed ceasefire, observers say deep mistrust continues to threaten long-term peace in the region.