Torkham Border Reopens: Afghan Repatriation Resumes After Weeks of Tension
Hundreds of Afghan nationals return home as Pakistan restarts phased repatriation after border closure.
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People stand next to parked trucks loaded with supplies at the Torkham border crossing following a clash between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Photo: Reuters
The return of Afghan nationals through the Torkham Border Crossing has resumed after nearly a month-long suspension caused by rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Authorities confirmed that 705 individuals from 223 families have been repatriated in the first phase. This includes registered Afghan citizens as well as individuals living in Pakistan without legal status. All returnees completed immigration and security checks before crossing the border.
The closure, which began in late February, had disrupted both the movement of people and trade between the two countries. After recent negotiations between security officials from both sides, the border has now been partially reopened to allow controlled repatriation.
Officials say the process will continue in a phased and organized way to maintain security and avoid chaos. However, trade between the two countries remains suspended, and talks are ongoing to restore commercial activity.
The situation escalated earlier this year after a series of attacks in Pakistan linked to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Islamabad accused Kabul of providing safe havens to militants, while Afghan authorities denied the claims.
Tensions further increased after reported airstrikes by Pakistan targeting suspected militant hideouts inside Afghanistan. While Pakistan claimed major militant losses, Afghan officials said civilians were also affected.
A temporary ceasefire was reached around Eid ul-Fitr, following mediation efforts by regional countries, helping ease tensions and reopen the border partially.
The Torkham crossing remains one of the busiest entry points between the two nations, along with Chaman, and plays a key role in both migration and trade.
Conclusion: A Fragile Step Toward Stability
The reopening of Torkham marks a small but important step toward reducing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. While the repatriation process has restarted, long-term stability will depend on continued dialogue, security cooperation, and the restoration of trade ties.