Pakistan has closed the Torkham border crossing with Afghanistan after the Afghan Taliban began trench construction near the frontier. The move, which took effect late Friday night, has halted all pedestrian and trade movement, escalating tensions between the two neighbors. This latest border closure comes amid ongoing security concerns and increased militant attacks in Pakistan.
Border Closure Suspends Movement
The Torkham border, a critical trade and transit point, has been shut since midnight on February 21, affecting both pedestrians and heavy vehicles. No gunfire or clashes have been reported so far, according to Naheed Khan, a senior police official in Khyber district.
Residents of Bacha Mina, a nearby Pakistani village, have begun leaving for safer locations, fearing a potential escalation of tensions. Meanwhile, several loaded trucks have returned to Jamrud Bazaar, disrupting trade flows. Afghan authorities have not yet responded to the border closure.
Rising Tensions and Security Concerns
Pakistan’s decision to close the border follows a surge in cross-border militant attacks. Islamabad has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of harboring militant groups, which it claims are responsible for launching attacks inside Pakistan. Afghan officials, however, deny these allegations.
Security concerns along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border have been growing for months. Pakistani officials argue that the presence of militant groups in Afghanistan has led to instability and an increase in terrorist activities in the region.
Read: New Rain Spell to Hit Pakistan with Flash Flood Threat
Border Disputes Disrupt Trade
This is not the first time the Torkham border has been shut due to tensions. In August 2024, the crossing was closed for three days after the Afghan Taliban accused Pakistani fighter jets of violating Afghan airspace.
The situation worsened in December when Pakistan reportedly carried out airstrikes on alleged militant hideouts in Afghanistan. Afghan officials claimed these attacks resulted in civilian casualties, further straining relations.
Such border closures severely impact trade, as Torkham is a major gateway for goods moving between the two countries. Frequent shutdowns have led to financial losses for traders and increased uncertainty in bilateral relations.
Uncertain Future for Border Stability
With diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan at a low point, the future of border stability remains uncertain. While both countries have previously managed temporary border disputes, ongoing security concerns and political tensions could make long-term resolution difficult.
For now, the Torkham border remains closed, affecting thousands of travelers and traders. Unless both sides engage in serious diplomatic efforts, such disruptions may continue, further damaging an already fragile relationship.
Follow us on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates
