Pakistan Reopens Torkham Border as Ceasefire Holds, Easing Regional Tensions

Pakistan has officially reopened its critical Torkham border crossing with Afghanistan. This move follows a fragile ceasefire that ended nearly two weeks of closure and military clashes. The reopening allows for the resumed repatriation of Afghan nationals.

The decision signals a significant de-escalation between the two neighboring nations. It comes after a truce was formalized in Doha and subsequently reinforced during talks in Istanbul.

Repatriation Efforts Resume Amid Cautious Calm

According to The Express Tribune, the repatriation process has now restarted at both the Torkham and Chaman crossings. Pakistani authorities reported a massive surge in crossings. They stated that around 10,700 individuals crossed into Afghanistan via Chaman in a single day.

So far, approximately 1.56 million Afghans have returned to their homeland under Pakistan’s initiative. Officials have directed all necessary staff to resume duties at Torkham to manage the flow. Temporary shelters and medical aid are in place to ensure a dignified return for families.

Trade Remains Suspended as Security is Monitored

While the border is open for people, commercial trade remains halted for now. This suspension has caused noticeable shortages in local Pakistani markets. Prices for essential goods, particularly fresh produce like tomatoes, have risen sharply.

A Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed the ongoing trade suspension. He noted that resuming commercial activity is dependent on the continued stability of the security situation. This cautious approach underscores the tentative nature of the current peace.

The recent clashes had stranded thousands and disrupted vital supply lines. The agreement to reopen was bolstered by a new round of talks mediated by Turkiye and Qatar. All parties have now agreed to establish a monitoring mechanism to enforce the ceasefire.

The Torkham border reopening marks a critical step toward restoring regional stability. This development directly impacts trade, refugee movements, and diplomatic relations. The situation remains fluid as both nations navigate this delicate ceasefire period.

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Why was the Torkham border closed?

The border was closed following deadly cross-border clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces. The closure lasted for nearly two weeks before the ceasefire allowed for its reopening.

Has trade also resumed at the border?

No, trade remains suspended for the time being. Officials state that commercial activity will only resume after a full assessment of the security situation.

How many people have returned to Afghanistan?

Pakistani authorities report that approximately 1.56 million Afghan nationals have returned under the repatriation initiative. Thousands crossed on the first day the borders reopened.

What is being done to maintain the ceasefire?

Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed to a monitoring and verification mechanism. This was established during talks in Istanbul with mediators from Turkiye and Qatar.

Who mediated the ceasefire talks?

The initial truce was formalized in Doha with Qatari mediation. Subsequent talks in Istanbul were jointly mediated by Turkiye and Qatar to consolidate the agreement.