Afghanistan Pakistan Agree Immediate Ceasefire Amid Deadly Border Clashes Mediated Qatar Turkey

Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire after a week of deadly cross-border clashes, in a deal brokered by Qatar and Turkey. The agreement includes the establishment of joint technical committees to monitor the ceasefire and plans for follow-up talks to ensure lasting peace and stability along their tense border. The violence had resulted in dozens of civilian deaths, including Afghan cricketers, and hundreds of injuries, prompting international concern. This ceasefire marks a significant step as it involves high-level engagement between Taliban and Pakistani defense officials since the Taliban's return to power in 2021. However, former Afghan vice president Amrullah Saleh criticized the agreement as a "diplomatic catastrophe" for the Taliban, arguing it forces them to legitimize Pakistan's claims about cross-border militancy and undermines their position. The situation remains fragile, with continued diplomatic efforts necessary to sustain peace.