People living along side the border demanding peaceful resolution of the Pak Afghan conflict as they said that both Islamic countries should respect each other soverignties.
Tribal elders and local merchants have held protests calling for the reopening of trade routes.
The border has seen its longest shutdown in living memory. This has crippled the livelihoods of transporters and traders in provinces like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Nangarhar.
The UN has warned that the “open war” is devastating a population already struggling with extreme poverty. Humanitarian officials have expressed deep concern over attacks near the Torkham border crossing, which is a vital lifeline for food and medicine.
Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an “immediate cessation of hostilities,” urging both nations to protect civilians and return to the negotiating table.
Qatar and Iran have offered to facilitate fresh dialogue. Iran’s Foreign Minister recently stated they are ready to provide any assistance to “enhance understanding” and prevent a regional catastrophe.
Afghan government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid stated on Friday that they “still want the problem to be resolved through dialogue” and are advocating for a non-violent approach.
Pakistan demands “verifiable actions” against the TTP (Pakistani Taliban) operating from Afghan soil.
Traders argue that Pakistan and Afghanistan must lift trade bans to ease the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, which could serve as a confidence-building measure.
The situation reached a breaking point this week when both nations exchanged direct strikes on each other’s capitals and major military hubs.
Early on February 27, Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia, claiming to target military installations. This followed an Afghan attack on Thursday night.
Reports indicate heavy tolls on both sides. Pakistan’s military claims to have killed nearly 300 Taliban members and destroyed over 80 tanks and artillery pieces. Conversely, Afghanistan claims its forces captured 19 Pakistani military posts and 2 bases.
Attempts at mediation in Turkey and Qatar (October-November 2025) failed to produce a lasting agreement, with both sides accusing the other of “unreasonable demands” and backing out of signed protocols.
Read also:Russia offers mediation amid Pak-Afghan border hostilities
