Afghanistan Charges Pakistan with Ceasefire Violations Along Durand Line
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Kabul, March 20 (NationPress) Afghanistan's Chief of Armed Forces, Fasihuddin Fitrat, has made serious allegations against the Pakistan military, asserting that they have breached the ceasefire agreement along the Durand Line, as reported by local media on Friday.
Following attacks conducted by Pakistani forces in border regions, the Ministry of Defence in Afghanistan released a statement indicating that several individuals lost their lives. Fitrat emphasized that Pakistan's ongoing assaults, despite the established ceasefire, reflect a notable disregard for commitments and a deceptive intention from Islamabad, according to reports from Ariana News.
He highlighted Afghanistan's restraint in launching any retaliatory strikes to avoid escalating the conflict, reaffirming their commitment to the ceasefire. However, he cautioned that if these attacks persist, the ceasefire could become irrelevant, leading the Taliban to deliver a decisive response to Pakistan's aggression.
On Wednesday, Afghanistan announced a temporary halt to its 'Rad al-Zulm' defensive operations for the Eid holiday, responding to requests from mediating countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye. Pakistan also declared a temporary suspension of military actions for Eid, with Information Minister Ataullah Tarar attributing this decision to regional mediation efforts.
Nonetheless, reports indicate that Pakistani military forces launched over 70 artillery shells into Afghanistan's Kunar province. Zia-ur-Rahman Spin Ghar, the head of information at Kunar’s Department of Information and Culture, stated that 35 shells were fired in various regions, including Barikot, Dokalam, and Tsongalai in Narai district, with an additional 37 shells reported in parts of Manogai district. Authorities have advised locals to stay vigilant and seek shelter as the situation is closely monitored.
On Tuesday, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi condemned the Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul, labeling them a grave violation of humanitarian and Islamic principles. He reported over 408 fatalities and more than 260 injuries resulting from the Pakistani assaults, the majority of whom were patients at a drug rehabilitation facility. He accused Pakistan of intentionally targeting civilian infrastructures.
In discussions with diplomats and representatives of various organizations in Kabul, Muttaqi pointed out that the airstrike hit one of society's most vulnerable groups—those undergoing treatment for drug addiction.
He warned that the series of attacks since February, particularly strikes on civilian locations across Afghanistan, have eroded trust in diplomatic resolutions. He reiterated that Afghan forces would continue to engage in proportionate and legitimate defensive actions if the assaults persist, stressing that Afghanistan seeks peace but is prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.