• Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire after deadly border clashes.
• Negotiations took place in Doha, facilitated by Qatar and Turkey.
• Both countries aim to consolidate peace and prevent further cross-border terrorism.
• Follow-up meetings are scheduled to ensure the ceasefire's sustainability.
• The ceasefire aims to restore respect for each country's sovereignty and protect civilians.

After over a week of intense border violence, Pakistan and Afghanistan have finally agreed to an immediate ceasefire mediated by Qatar and Turkey. The decision was announced following negotiations in Doha, where both nations sought measures to end hostilities that have resulted in significant casualties and injuries on both sides, with reports indicating at least dozens dead and hundreds wounded during the clashes, making it the most severe conflict since the Taliban regained power in Kabul in 2021, according to Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, and India Times.

During the negotiations lasting 13 hours, both sides affirmed their commitment to cease hostilities. The ceasefire agreement emphasizes that neither country will conduct hostile actions against the other or assist groups that launch attacks within Pakistan, according to The Jakarta Post and Le Monde.

Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed the agreement, stating that “cross-border terrorism from Afghan territory will cease immediately”, and both parties will meet again in Istanbul on October 25 for further discussions. They will establish a monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance, as detailed by Los Angeles Times and BBC.

Recent clashes were triggered by accusations from both countries regarding the harboring of militants. Islamabad alleges that Afghanistan offers safe haven to groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while Kabul denies these claims and accuses Pakistan of conducting airstrikes that have affected civilians, including local cricket players, according to Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.

As the situation develops, Gulf States, including Qatar, have played an active role in mediating discussions, emphasizing the need for regional stability and the prevention of further violence. The need for sustained dialogue and cooperation remains essential for resolving long-standing tensions along their shared border, as highlighted by Al Jazeera and Anadolu Agency.