ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan-Afghanistan border is expected to reopen within the next 24 to 48 hours, sources said Monday, a day after both sides agreed to a ceasefire in Qatar-mediated talks.
Pakistan had shut the Torkham and Chaman crossings on October 12 following Taliban and affiliated militants’ attacks on multiple Pakistan Army border posts.
According to security sources, the reopening depends on no further dispute arising between the two countries.
The clashes began on the night of October 11–12 when Afghan Taliban and militants launched unprovoked attacks on Pakistani border posts, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. Over 200 militants were killed while 23 Pakistani soldiers embraced martyrdom.
Pakistan also carried out precision strikes deep inside Afghanistan, targeting terrorists in Kandahar and Kabul.
A 48-hour ceasefire was first announced on October 15 at Afghanistan’s request, later extended, before Sunday’s breakthrough agreement. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed that both sides will now meet again in Istanbul on October 25 for “detailed talks.”
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also said the agreement ensures a “complete and meaningful” ceasefire.
Terrorism behind tensions
Speaking to Al Jazeera Arabic, Khawaja Asif said both sides acknowledged terrorism as the main cause of tensions and agreed its elimination was “essential.”
He added that curbing terrorism was key to regional peace and the resumption of trade and transit with Afghanistan.
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Border residents relieved
Meanwhile, border residents expressed relief as fighting subsided.
“People can finally breathe and feel relieved,” said Sadiq Shah, a shopkeeper in Baizai, adding clashes had damaged homes and disrupted daily life.
Trade has been hit hard, with more than 1,500 loaded trucks stuck at Torkham. Afghan officials warned prolonged closure could increase prices, unemployment, and market instability.
“Trade relations should remain separate from political issues,” said Abdul Rahman Habib, spokesman for the Taliban’s economy ministry.
