Doha: In a significant development, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire after several days of intense border clashes that resulted in numerous casualties. The agreement was reached during peace talks held in Doha, Qatar, on October 18, 2025, mediated by Qatar and Turkey.
The recent violence marked the worst escalation between the two nations since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. Clashes intensified following the expiration of a previous 48-hour ceasefire, with Pakistan conducting airstrikes in Afghanistan’s Paktika province, targeting alleged militant hideouts.
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These strikes led to civilian casualties, including the deaths of three Afghan cricketers, which provoked public outrage and a subsequent boycott by Afghanistan’s cricket board.
Terms of the Ceasefire Agreement
Under the new ceasefire agreement, both nations have pledged to halt all military operations along their shared border. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the two sides agreed to the establishment of mechanisms aimed at consolidating lasting peace and stability between the countries.
Additionally, they committed to holding follow-up meetings in the coming days to ensure the sustainability of the ceasefire and verify its implementation.
Diplomatic Efforts and International Reaction
The ceasefire negotiations were led by Afghan Defence Minister Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob and Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif.
Both sides have expressed optimism about the agreement, emphasizing the importance of respecting each other’s territorial sovereignty and cooperating to combat cross-border militancy.
India Voices Concern Over Escalating Tensions
India reacted strongly to the recent escalation of conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan. It accused Pakistan of providing safe haven to terrorist organizations that destabilize the region and of deflecting responsibility for its own internal challenges by blaming neighboring countries.
Additionally, India expressed concern over Pakistan’s apparent displeasure at Afghanistan’s efforts to assert full sovereignty over its territory, highlighting the broader regional implications of the border tensions.
Unresolved issues continue to pose challenges to long-term peace
International bodies, including the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, have welcomed the ceasefire and urged both nations to engage in sustained dialogue to address underlying issues.
However, that while the ceasefire provides temporary relief, unresolved core issues, such as the disputed Durand Line and allegations of harboring militants, continue to pose challenges to long-term peace.
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The immediate ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, facilitated by Qatar and Turkey, represents a positive step toward de-escalating tensions in the region.
While the agreement offers hope for stability, its success will depend on the commitment of both nations to uphold the terms and engage in constructive dialogue to address the complex issues at the heart of their bilateral relations.