After five days of intense clashes in Paktia province, a ceasefire was reached between Pakistani border forces and the Taliban on Saturday evening.
With the ceasefire in effect, the Kharlachi crossing, which had been closed since Monday, 13 May, at the start of the conflict, is set to reopen for traders and travelers.
According to Pakistani news outlet Dawn, Jalal Bangash, a tribal elder, reported that the ceasefire was negotiated during a jirga that included local elders, clerics, and officials from both sides. It was decided at this meeting to form a joint peace committee to maintain stability along the border.
Bangash highlighted that all disputes would be settled peacefully. He pointed out that the agreement, driven by the hardships faced by communities on both sides of the border, ensures the quick reopening of the crossing.
The clashes, which started last Monday in Paktia province, escalated on Friday and spread to several districts. Footage obtained by Afghanistan International shows extensive damage to markets and residential areas due to the fighting. The severity of the clashes led to evacuations in nearby villages and towns.
Local sources reported that the conflict began when Pakistani forces constructed a new checkpoint at the border’s zero point. On Friday, local clinics in Paktia reported that at least five Taliban members and three civilians were killed in the clashes.
