Days after Kabul hospital attack, Pakistan and Afghanistan announce Eid ceasefire

Kabul — Pakistan and Afghanistan have announced a temporary ceasefire on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, following appeals from countries including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar. The move comes amid heightened tensions after Kabul accused Islamabad of carrying out a deadly airstrike that reportedly killed hundreds.

Pakistan’s Information Minister Ataullah Tarar announced the decision on social media, stating that the pause in hostilities would be observed from midnight March 18/19 to midnight March 23/24. He said the step was taken both on Pakistan’s own initiative and at the request of friendly Islamic nations.

However, Tarar made it clear that the pause is conditional and that military operations would resume immediately if there is any cross-border attack, drone strike, or terrorist incident within Pakistan.

Soon after, Afghanistan also confirmed a similar move. Government spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said Afghan security forces would suspend defensive operations during Eid, while warning that the country would respond firmly to any provocation.

The ceasefire comes just a day after the Taliban-led administration accused Pakistan of launching a major attack in Kabul. Deputy spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat claimed the strike targeted a drug rehabilitation centre, killing at least 400 people and injuring around 250 others.

A mass funeral was held on Wednesday for the victims, drawing widespread attention and condemnation. Addressing mourners, Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani termed the attack “a highly despicable and inhumane act,” as reported by TOLO News.

Despite the temporary ceasefire, tensions remain high, with both nations signalling they are prepared to respond if the situation escalates further.

With inputs from IANS