Pakistan and Afghanistan Extend Ceasefire as Doha Talks Begin; 7 Soldiers Martyred in Suicide Attack

Pakistan and Afghanistan Extend Ceasefire as Doha Talks Set to Begin

17 October 2025 — Islamabad / Kabul:

Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to extend the existing ceasefire, aiming to reduce border tensions and create a stable environment ahead of the upcoming Doha peace talks. The decision comes at a critical time when a suicide attack in North Waziristan killed seven Pakistani soldiers, raising concerns about the fragile peace process.

Suicide Attack Kills Seven Pakistani Soldiers

According to official sources, a suicide bomber targeted a security checkpoint in North Waziristan early Friday morning. The attacker rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the military post, resulting in the martyrdom of seven Pakistani soldiers and injuries to several others. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the attack, stating that four militants were killed in a swift counter-operation while a search mission is ongoing in the area.

The attack took place just hours before the formal announcement of the ceasefire extension, raising fears that militant groups might attempt to sabotage the peace process between the two neighboring nations.

Border Tensions and Background

Recent weeks have seen increased cross-border clashes near Torkham and Chaman, leaving dozens dead and injured. Pakistan has repeatedly accused Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of launching attacks from Afghan soil — a claim that the Taliban government in Kabul denies. Afghan officials maintain that they do not allow any group to use their territory against Pakistan, calling for greater diplomatic engagement instead of blame.

Doha Peace Talks Preparation

Both countries are now preparing to send high-level delegations to Doha, Qatar, where talks will focus on border security, counterterrorism cooperation, and the activities of militant groups operating in the region. Qatar will act as a mediator, facilitating trust-building measures and promoting dialogue between Islamabad and Kabul.

Diplomatic insiders say that the TTP issue will top the discussion agenda, as Pakistan continues to demand that Afghanistan take decisive action against terrorist networks threatening its national security.

International Response

The United Nations and China have welcomed the ceasefire extension, urging both sides to commit to peace. A UN spokesperson stated, “This is a positive step, but sustainable peace will require concrete action and mutual trust.”

Meanwhile, Qatar praised the move and expressed hope that the upcoming Doha talks would mark a “turning point for regional stability.”

Conclusion

The extension of the ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, coupled with the initiation of Doha talks, offers a glimmer of hope for long-term regional peace. However, the suicide attack killing seven Pakistani soldiers has added urgency and complexity to the negotiations. Both nations now face a crucial test: whether they can turn words into action and prevent militant spoilers from derailing the peace process.