Doha Talks Yield Immediate Ceasefire

Pakistan and Afghanistan's defence-level delegations met in Doha for crisis talks mediated by Qatar and Turkey, with regional figures including Malaysia's prime minister involved. They agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to set up mechanisms and follow-up meetings aimed at securing a lasting de-escalation. The negotiations seek to halt cross-border militancy that has killed dozens on both sides, with Pakistan demanding verifiable action against groups such as the TTP and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). Violence surged after recent blasts in Kabul and a brief 48-hour truce; Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Paktika that Afghan officials say killed at least 10 civilians, including local cricketers, while Pakistani authorities say they hit militant hideouts and reported only fighter casualties. Both governments continue to accuse each other of harbouring militants and violating sovereignty, and regional powers have urged calm as negotiators press for concrete steps to make the ceasefire durable.