Afghanistan, Pak agree for immediate ceasefire following Turkish and Qatari mediation
In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following intense border clashes that resulted in numerous casualties.
The agreement was reached after extensive negotiations mediated by Qatar and Turkey in Doha, Qatar, on October 18, 2025.
The ceasefire aims to halt the escalating violence along their 2,600-kilometer border and sets the stage for future peace talks.
Background of the Conflict
The recent hostilities were triggered by Pakistan’s accusations that Afghanistan was harboring militants responsible for cross-border attacks, including a suicide bombing that killed seven Pakistani soldiers.
Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, emphasized the need for Afghanistan to rein in these groups, which Islamabad claims operate from sanctuaries within Afghan territory.
In response, Afghanistan denied these allegations and accused Pakistan of harboring Islamic State-linked fighters, further complicating the situation.
Mediation Efforts by Qatar and Turkey
The escalating violence prompted international concern, leading Qatar and Turkey to step in as mediators.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry confirmed that both nations agreed to the ceasefire and committed to establishing mechanisms to consolidate lasting peace and stability between the two countries.
The mediation was welcomed by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who appreciated the constructive role played by Qatar and Turkey.
He expressed hope for the establishment of a concrete and verifiable monitoring mechanism in the upcoming meeting to address the issue of terrorism emanating from Afghan soil towards Pakistan.
Terms of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire agreement includes mutual commitments to respect each other’s territorial integrity and refrain from targeting each other’s security forces, civilians, or critical infrastructure.
Both sides agreed to cease support for groups that carry out attacks against the other, notably the Pakistani Taliban.
A third-party mediated mechanism will be established to review compliance claims and ensure enforcement.
The next round of detailed discussions is scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul.
Regional and International Reactions
The ceasefire has been met with cautious optimism from the international community.
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reported that the recent clashes resulted in at least 37 civilian deaths and 425 injuries, highlighting the urgent need for peace.
Regional powers have also called for calm and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in South Asia.
Conclusion
While the ceasefire marks a positive step towards de-escalation, analysts caution that unresolved core issues still threaten long-term stability.
The success of the ceasefire will depend on the commitment of both nations to uphold the agreement and address underlying concerns through continued dialogue.
The mediation efforts by Qatar and Turkey underscore the importance of regional cooperation in resolving conflicts and promoting peace in South Asia.
#PakistanAfghanistanCeasefire #DohaPeaceTalks #QatarTurkeyMediation #SouthAsiaPeace #DurandLineTensions #CrossBorderClashes #RegionalStability #InternationalDiplomacy
