Pakistan, Afghanistan Agree on Eid Truce, Pause Military Operations

Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to a temporary ceasefire during Eid al-Fitr, pausing ongoing military operations along their shared border after weeks of escalating conflict. The decision was announced as a goodwill gesture amid rising tensions and humanitarian concerns.

According to officials, the truce will begin from March 19 and continue until March 23, 2026, following appeals from countries including Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

Mutual Pause in Military Operations

Pakistan confirmed it would temporarily halt its ongoing military campaign, while the Afghan Taliban also announced a reciprocal suspension of operations during the Eid period.

Officials described the move as a gesture made “in good faith” and in line with Islamic traditions during Eid, which marks the end of Ramadan.

However, authorities made it clear that the ceasefire is conditional, warning that any cross-border attack, drone strike, or militant activity would result in an immediate resumption of operations.

Background of Rising Tensions

The truce comes after weeks of intense clashes between Pakistani forces and Afghan Taliban fighters that began in late February. The conflict included airstrikes, artillery exchanges, and cross-border operations, significantly escalating tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

Casualties have been reported on both sides, including soldiers and civilians, as the situation deteriorated into one of the most serious escalations in recent years.

The situation further intensified following reports of a deadly strike in Kabul, which both sides disputed, adding to the already fragile security environment.

Diplomatic and Regional Context

The agreement to pause hostilities reflects regional diplomatic pressure, with several Muslim countries urging both sides to de-escalate tensions during the religious holiday.

The truce is being seen as a temporary opportunity for both countries to reassess the situation and potentially open channels for dialogue, although no long-term ceasefire agreement has been announced.

What Comes Next

While the Eid truce provides short-term relief, the situation remains fragile. The continuation of peace will depend on whether both sides can avoid further escalation after the pause ends.

For now, the ceasefire offers a brief window of stability during Eid, but underlying tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain unresolved, with the risk of renewed conflict still present.