KURRAM: The warring factions in the Kurram tribal district agreed on Wednesday to extend their ceasefire for an additional 10 days, despite intermittent clashes in the area. The fragile truce, which was set to end on November 30, came following a jirga held in the Alizai area, Kurram Deputy Commissioner Javedullah Mehsud reported.
Key Developments
As per the agreement, both parties will vacate their trenches on Thursday, allowing army and paramilitary forces to take control. The ceasefire terms also include an exchange of bodies and hostages during the extended period.
Continued Clashes
Despite the agreement, sporadic violence was reported in areas including Bagan, Alizai, Pareechkhel, Khar Kalay, Maqbal, Kunj Alizai, Peewar, and Teri Mangal. These clashes are remnants of violence triggered by a deadly gun attack on a convoy of vehicles on November 21, which claimed dozens of lives.
Government Response
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur welcomed the ceasefire extension, expressing optimism that it could lead to lasting peace. Highlighting the importance of dialogue in accordance with Pakhtun traditions, he stressed the provincial government’s commitment to resolving conflicts.
During a meeting to review the law and order situation, senior officials, including the Chief Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry and Inspector General of Police Akhtar Hayat Khan, briefed the Chief Minister on the ceasefire and ongoing negotiations. Authorities are also assessing property damages caused by the clashes, while law enforcement agencies have been deployed to maintain peace in key locations.
The Chief Minister directed officials to expedite damage assessments and provide immediate financial aid to families affected by the conflict. He reaffirmed the government’s priority of restoring sustainable peace in the region through all available measures.
