The Afghan Taliban and Pakistan have agreed to a 48-hour ceasefire following recent deadly clashes along their border. The truce, which began at 13:00 GMT on Wednesday, offers a temporary halt to escalating violence after weeks of tension.
The fighting intensified after a series of explosions in Afghanistan, blamed by Kabul on Pakistani forces, which the Taliban deny supporting. Both sides accused each other of initiating attacks near Spin Boldak. Pakistan’s military claimed to have killed 15 to 20 Taliban fighters, while the Taliban reported heavy Pakistani casualties. Independent confirmation of losses remains unavailable.
Later, blasts in Kabul and Kandahar raised tensions further. Pakistan announced the ceasefire shortly after, with its Foreign Office saying both sides would work towards resolving the conflict through dialogue. The Taliban said their forces would respect the truce “as long as no one commits aggression.”
Pakistani media reported air strikes on Kandahar and Kabul, though official confirmation was lacking. Taliban sources stated Kabul was hit by two air strikes, with black smoke and street closures reported. Medical centres treated dozens of casualties, including five fatalities.
The ceasefire follows intense border clashes over the weekend, with both sides claiming significant enemy losses—claims that remain unverified. Residents described prolonged fighting, drone and jet activity, and widespread displacement of families.
Calls for calm came from China, Russia, and U.S. President Donald Trump, who offered to broker peace. UN human rights expert Richard Bennett urged all parties to protect civilians and abide by international law.
The ceasefire offers a fragile pause in a long-standing dispute but lasting peace will require continued dialogue and compromise.