As Afghans celebrate Eid, there is at least some relief, with Afghanistan and Pakistan pausing military operations following mediation by Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Türkiye after weeks of tension.
The pause comes after more than a month of cross-border strain, with both sides trading accusations over alleged militant activity along their shared border.
Afghanistan’s government spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said the decision was taken both in observance of Eid al-Fitr and in response to requests from regional mediators. He confirmed that Afghan forces would halt operations, stating: “The Afghan security and defence forces will temporarily suspend the Rad ul-Zulm defensive operations… in response to requests from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the State of Qatar, and the Republic of Türkiye.”
He also stressed Kabul’s position on security, adding that “safeguarding the country’s national security, sovereignty, and the lives of its people” remains a priority, and warning that “in the event of any threat, the Islamic Emirate will respond decisively.”
Pakistan announced a similar pause. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the move was both voluntary and coordinated with regional partners.
He said: “The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has decided to announce a temporary pause amidst ongoing ‘Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq’,” adding that the suspension will run until midnight on 24 March 2026.
Tarar described the move as a gesture “in good faith and in keeping with Islamic norms”, but warned that any “cross-border attack, drone attack or any terrorist incident inside Pakistan” would see operations resume “with renewed intensity.”
The development marks a significant, though temporary, de-escalation. Islamabad has repeatedly alleged that Kabul shelters militants - a claim Afghan authorities deny.
For now, the pause offers civilians on both sides a brief respite during Eid, though underlying tensions remain unresolved.
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