Pakistan: Border with Afghanistan to Remain Closed Until TTP Curbed

DID Press: Pakistan announced that its border crossings with Afghanistan will remain closed until the Taliban government takes tangible, verifiable, and irreversible measures against Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Officials in Islamabad said the decision is part of a new security approach, linking any economic cooperation with Kabul to “concrete actions” against groups threatening Pakistan’s security.

As a result, the Torkham border and other crossings have been closed for over five weeks, leaving thousands of trucks, containers, and commercial convoys stranded on both sides. The closures have severely disrupted bilateral trade and affected key regional transit routes.

Pakistani authorities claim that recent cross-border attacks and security incidents indicate that elements linked to these attacks are sheltering in Afghan territory. A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that normal trade will only resume once the Taliban take measurable steps to control these groups.

The prolonged closure has sparked protests in Pakistan’s border regions, particularly in Khyber. Traders and local residents in Landi Kotal have demanded the reopening of the border, warning that continued closure threatens the livelihoods of thousands of families. Tribal elders have suggested serving as mediators to reduce tensions.

Meanwhile, the Taliban have accused Pakistan of politicizing trade and urged Afghan traders to explore alternative routes. Analysts note that, despite unsuccessful mediation efforts by Turkey and Qatar, mounting economic pressure and social unrest may eventually push Kabul and Islamabad back to the negotiating table.