ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has resumed military operations against Afghanistan following the conclusion of a temporary Eid-ul-Fitr ceasefire, signalling renewed tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
The Foreign Office Pakistan confirmed that operations restarted after the pause ended at midnight between March 23 and 24. Consequently, Islamabad stated that military action will continue until its security objectives are achieved.
Speaking at a weekly briefing in Islamabad, spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the ceasefire was observed during Eid-ul-Fitr at the request of friendly countries, including Türkiye, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. However, he confirmed that operations have now resumed and will persist.
Furthermore, Andrabi stressed that the campaign will continue until the Afghan Taliban administration revises what Pakistan describes as its “misplaced priority” of supporting militant infrastructure. He added that progress depends on concrete action by Kabul against armed groups operating in the region.
Meanwhile, tensions escalated after Kabul accused Pakistan of carrying out a deadly air strike in the Afghan capital. Afghan officials claimed the attack hit a rehabilitation centre and killed more than 400 people. In contrast, Pakistan rejected the allegation, stating that its strikes targeted only military installations and terrorist support facilities.
Amid the conflict, authorities briefly reopened the Torkham border crossing, allowing stranded Afghan refugees to return home. Many had remained stuck for weeks due to suspended trade and travel routes.
In addition, trade at key crossings has largely remained halted since earlier strikes began. Pakistan continues to host millions of Afghan refugees but has intensified repatriation under its Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan launched in 2023.
Overall, the situation remains tense, with military operations ongoing and diplomatic efforts yet to produce a lasting resolution.
