Tensions rise as Islamabad warns of swift retaliation if cross-border incidents persist during Eid ceasefire
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Friday strongly rejected allegations by the Afghan Taliban that it violated a temporary Eid ceasefire, calling the claims “frivolous” and “absolutely false.”
In a sharply worded statement, the Information Ministry said the accusations appear to be fabricated by elements within the Taliban administration to create a “false pretext” for future cross-border attacks. The rebuttal came a day after Kabul accused Pakistani forces of breaching a five-day truce announced for Eid-ul-Fitr.
The pause in hostilities followed Pakistan’s launch of a temporary suspension of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq earlier this week, a move aimed at reducing tensions during the holiday period. The ceasefire had been facilitated through diplomatic efforts involving regional mediators, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye.
Despite initial signs of reciprocity from Kabul, the Afghan defense ministry’s statement on the first day of Eid escalated tensions, raising concerns about the fragility of the arrangement.
Pakistan warned that any further “propaganda” or hostile action would lead to the immediate termination of the ceasefire. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar reiterated that the military operation, launched in response to earlier cross-border firing, remains on standby for rapid resumption.
Officials said any drone activity or militant attacks during the truce would trigger a decisive response, underscoring the volatility along the border despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
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