Government officials in northwestern Pakistan are mediating to broker a ceasefire between rival sectarian groups after several days of intense clashes in Kurram district near the Afghanistan border. At least 68 people have been killed, and many more injured since violence erupted on Thursday.
The unrest began with a deadly attack on convoys of civilian vehicles, killing at least 40, primarily Shi’ite Muslims, which triggered retaliatory attacks against Sunni residents, escalating into broader sectarian violence.
The clashes highlight longstanding tribal and sectarian tensions in Kurram, a region marked by a history of rivalry between Shi’ite and Sunni Muslims.
These disputes often stem from underlying issues like land ownership and ethnic divides, with this latest round of violence drawing further attention to the fragility of peace in the area. Armed groups from both sides have engaged in destructive actions, including attacking settlements, evacuating homes, and torching petrol stations, while schools and markets remain closed amid the unrest.
Pakistan Officials Work to Mediate Ceasefire Amid Deadly Sectarian Clashes in Kurram District
In response, a government delegation, led by provincial information minister Muhammad Ali Saif, traveled to Parachinar, Kurram’s main city, to meet with community leaders from both sects. After engaging with Shi’ite leaders on Saturday, the delegation stayed overnight to meet Sunni leaders on Sunday.
Efforts are focused on achieving a ceasefire and addressing the root causes of the conflict. According to the minister, the meetings have yielded “positive developments” in dialogue with stakeholders.
The situation remains tense as violence continues to claim lives. Official sources have raised the death toll from retaliatory violence to at least 28, cautioning that the figure may rise as disrupted communications hinder accurate casualty reporting.
Even the government delegation’s helicopter faced gunfire while landing, reflecting the perilous conditions in the area. Despite this, authorities remain committed to mediating peace and restoring stability.
The violence has caused widespread disruption in Kurram, forcing residents to evacuate and cutting off access to essential services. With the local economy and daily life at a standstill, the need for a durable resolution to sectarian tensions is more urgent than ever.
While the government’s efforts to mediate and negotiate show promise, addressing the deep-rooted causes of conflict will be critical to ensuring lasting peace in this volatile region.
