Pakistani and Afghan Clerics Call for Truce Extension Until Eid al-Adha

DID Press: A group of religious scholars from Pakistan and Afghanistan has jointly called for extending the temporary ceasefire declared during Eid al-Fitr until Eid al-Adha, aiming to ensure a peaceful environment for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage season.

The request was issued Tuesday by 11 religious scholars from both countries, who described the proposal as part of sincere reconciliation efforts to reach a sustainable and dignified resolution to ongoing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad.

According to Pakistani media reports, the joint statement noted that religious leaders, political figures, and tribal elders on both sides are working collaboratively to reduce tensions through dialogue and diplomatic initiatives, with the goal of promoting stability across the region. The scholars emphasized that the “peace initiative” goes beyond a simple ceasefire extension and reflects broader efforts to resolve long-standing disputes between the two neighboring countries.

Earlier, the government of Pakistan announced a temporary halt in hostilities during Eid al-Fitr. Pakistani officials said the move was influenced not only by domestic considerations but also by appeals from several Muslim-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey.

According to official statements, the ceasefire began at midnight between March 18 and 19 and remained in effect until midnight between March 23 and 24. The pause in fighting followed the launch of Pakistan’s military operation known as “Ghazab-ul-Haq”, initiated in late February after cross-border clashes with forces of the Taliban.

Religious scholars from both countries expressed hope that extending the ceasefire could help ease tensions, strengthen mutual trust, and pave the way for lasting peace in relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.