Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Afghanistan’s Chief of Armed Forces Fasihuddin Fitrat has accused Pakistan military of violating the ceasefire along the Durand Line, local media reported on March 20. Several people were killed in attacks conducted by Pakistani forces in border areas, according to the statement released by Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence. Fitrat stated that Pakistan’s continuous attacks despite the ceasefire “demonstrates a lack of commitment and deception” by Islamabad, Afghanistan-based Ariana News reported.
Fitrat stated that Afghanistan has refrained from taking any retaliatory action to prevent further worsening of the situation and has remained committed to the ceasefire. He warned that “the ceasefire will become meaningless” and Taliban will give a “decisive response” to Pakistan’s actions if such attacks are repeated.
Earlier, Afghanistan said it would pause its Rad al-Zulm defensive operations for Eid at the request of mediating nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye. Pakistan also announced temporary pause in military operations for Eid, with Information Minister Ataullah Tarar saying that the decision was taken at the request of the regional mediators.
However, according to officials, Pakistani military forces fired over 70 artillery shells in Afghanistan’s Kunar province, local media reported. Zia-ur-Rahman Spin Ghar, head of information at Kunar’s Department of Information and Culture, said 35 shells were fired in several areas, including Barikot, Dokalam and Tsongalai in Narai district, Ariana News reported. Furthermore, 37 shells were reported in parts of Manogai district. The authorities have urged residents to remain alert and seek shelter in safer areas as officials continue to monitor the situation.
