Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to halt the ongoing conflict temporarily following a deadly airstrike in Kabul that Afghanistan attributed to Pakistan, resulting in casualties at a drug rehabilitation facility. The pause in hostilities was announced ahead of the Eid al-Fitr holiday and under the mediation of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar, who have been striving to broker peace between the two nations since February’s escalation of tensions.
A mass funeral was held in Kabul for the victims of the recent strike, as both countries declared a suspension of attacks. Pakistan’s Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, stated that the ceasefire would be in place from Wednesday midnight until Monday midnight, citing Islamic principles. However, operations will resume promptly in response to any cross-border or terrorist incidents within Pakistan.
Afghanistan’s government spokesperson, Zabiullah Mujahid, did not specify a timeframe for the Afghan side’s ceasefire but affirmed readiness to respond decisively to any threats. Pakistan refuted claims of targeting a hospital in Kabul, asserting its strikes were aimed at military targets and dismissing Afghan reports of civilian casualties as propaganda.
The conflict, now in its third week, has witnessed cross-border clashes and airstrikes despite international calls for de-escalation. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring militants who launch attacks inside Pakistan, particularly the Pakistani Taliban. Kabul denies these accusations, emphasizing the need for peace and security in the region.
The recent attack in Kabul, labeled the deadliest amid escalating tensions, resulted in a high number of casualties, including fatalities and injuries. The international community remains concerned about the conflict’s impact, given the presence of various militant groups in the region. The ceasefire agreement marks a significant step towards reducing hostilities and fostering stability between Pakistan and Afghanistan.