POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
In a significant development, warring factions in Kurram tribal district agreed on Wednesday to extend the tenuous week-long ceasefire for an additional 10 days. The truce, initially set to end on November 30, was reached during a jirga held in the Alizai area, according to Deputy Commissioner Javedullah Mehsud.
Under the terms of the agreement, both parties will vacate their trenches on Thursday, allowing army and paramilitary forces to take over key positions. The ceasefire also includes the exchange of bodies and hostages during the truce period.
Despite the agreement, sporadic violence was reported in several areas, including Bagan, Alizai, Pareechkhel, and Peewar. The conflict was triggered by a deadly attack on a convoy on November 21, resulting in dozens of casualties.
Provincial Government Response
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur lauded the ceasefire during a high-level meeting on law and order in Kurram. He expressed optimism that the truce would lead to lasting peace and emphasized the importance of resolving disputes through traditional Pakhtun dialogue.
Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry and Inspector General of Police Akhtar Hayat Khan, were briefed on the situation. Authorities noted that law enforcement agencies were being deployed to strategic locations, and a security plan had been implemented to ensure the safe movement of residents.
Damage Assessment and Support
The provincial government is assessing property damage caused during the clashes. CM Gandapur directed officials to expedite the process and ensure swift financial assistance to the families of those killed in the conflict.
"Restoring sustainable peace in Kurram is our top priority," Gandapur stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to using all available resources to achieve this goal.