Pakistan-Afghanistan War: Pakistan, Afghanistan Announce 48-Hour Ceasefire Amidst Border Clashes

Pakistan has declared a 48-hour ceasefire with Afghanistan after intense border skirmishes that claimed dozens of lives. The decision came at the request of the Taliban administration, aiming to pave the way for constructive dialogue to resolve the long-standing border dispute. Fresh clashes had erupted on Tuesday in the northwestern border region, with Pakistan accusing Afghan forces of unprovoked firing.

Details of the Agreement

Pakistan's Foreign Office confirmed on Wednesday that, at the request of the Taliban, a temporary ceasefire was mutually agreed upon by both sides, commencing at 6 PM (Pakistan Standard Time) and lasting for the next 48 hours. During this period, both Pakistan and Afghanistan will make serious efforts to find a positive solution to this complex yet resolvable issue through constructive dialogue. This move is seen as a crucial step towards de-escalating tensions and establishing lasting peace through diplomatic means.

History of Clashes and Dispute

The recent clashes followed earlier Pakistani air attacks in various. Parts of Afghanistan, which led to an escalation of border conflicts. Those earlier skirmishes reportedly resulted in over 50 Pakistani soldiers killed and a large number injured, with Afghanistan claiming to have captured several Pakistani outposts. The core of the dispute lies around the 2500-kilometer-long Durand Line, a border established in 1893 between British India and Afghanistan. Afghanistan disputes the legitimacy of this line, considering it a relic of colonial rule and asserting that the Durand Agreement was signed under British pressure, while the line also divides Pashtun tribes residing in both countries, adding to the complexity of the issue.