Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government announced a 48-hour ceasefire on Wednesday following a surge in deadly cross-border violence. Each side claimed the other requested the truce, which began at 13:00 GMT, amid rising regional tension.
According to Taliban officials, at least 12 civilians were killed and over 100 wounded by Pakistani shelling, while Pakistan claimed to have eliminated 15–20 Afghan Taliban fighters in Spin Boldak. The Taliban countered by alleging multiple Pakistani casualties. None of these figures have been independently verified.
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Explosions in Kabul and Kandahar reportedly intensified hostilities before the ceasefire announcement. Afghan sources told the media that air strikes hit Kabul, while Pakistan’s Foreign Office called for “constructive dialogue” to resolve disputes peacefully.
UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett expressed concern over civilian harm and displacement, urging restraint and adherence to international law.
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The flare-up follows repeated Pakistani accusations that the Afghan Taliban shelter the Pakistan Taliban (TTP) — a claim Kabul denies. Both nations now face mounting international pressure to de-escalate and establish lasting border management mechanisms.
