Pakistan has announced a temporary pause in Operation Ghazab lil-Haq ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr. Authorities described the decision as a goodwill gesture aligned with Islamic traditions.
The pause will remain effective from midnight March 18–19 until midnight March 23–24, 2026. Officials confirmed the decision followed consultations with several friendly Islamic countries.
According to the government, the move reflects humanitarian considerations during the religious festival while maintaining national security readiness.
Gesture Made in Good Faith
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that Pakistan initiated the pause voluntarily. He added that brotherly nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye, supported the initiative.
Officials emphasized that the temporary halt demonstrates respect for religious values during Eid celebrations. However, authorities clarified that the pause does not signal an end to military preparedness.
Warning Against Cross-Border Attacks
The government warned that any cross-border aggression would immediately end the pause. Military operations would resume with renewed intensity if attacks occur.
Officials specifically mentioned drone strikes, terrorist incidents, or infiltration attempts as triggers for renewed action. Therefore, security forces remain fully alert throughout the ceasefire period.
Background of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq
Security forces launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq last month following escalating border tensions. Authorities said the operation targeted terrorist networks and support infrastructure operating from Afghan territory.
Officials reported significant operational outcomes since the campaign began. According to government figures, hundreds of militants were killed or injured during ongoing actions.
Additionally, numerous posts linked to hostile elements were destroyed or captured. Military strikes also targeted infrastructure used for planning and supporting attacks against Pakistan.
Recent Military Developments
Authorities stated that Pakistani forces conducted precision strikes on selected military installations in Kabul and Nangarhar earlier this week. These operations reportedly targeted drone storage facilities, ammunition depots, and technical support sites.
Officials said such facilities were allegedly used to launch attacks against Pakistani civilians. The government maintained that operations focused on security objectives rather than civilian areas.
Meanwhile, military leadership claimed that drones supplied from India were recently used against Pakistan. Officials rejected allegations regarding civilian casualties linked to Pakistani strikes.
Rising Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have intensified following several deadly attacks inside Pakistan. Authorities linked incidents in Islamabad, Bajaur, and Bannu to militants operating from Afghan territory.
Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghan authorities to prevent militant groups from using their soil for cross-border violence. Intelligence-based operations later targeted multiple militant camps along the border region.
Earlier ceasefire arrangements had been reached through international mediation efforts. However, follow-up discussions failed to produce lasting solutions due to unresolved security concerns.
Diplomatic Efforts and Regional Context
Previous agreements required an immediate halt to cross-border terrorism. Despite negotiations, mutual distrust continued to shape relations between the two neighbors.
The temporary Eid pause now represents another attempt to reduce tensions while leaving room for diplomacy. Officials hope restraint during the religious period may create space for renewed dialogue.
What Comes Next
Pakistan’s leadership has framed the ceasefire as both symbolic and strategic. While the pause offers relief during Eid, security institutions remain prepared for rapid escalation if required.
The coming days will determine whether calm prevails along the border. For now, authorities emphasize vigilance alongside goodwill during the Eid-ul-Fitr period.
