Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to extend a ceasefire during recent talks mediated by Turkey and Qatar in Istanbul, following severe border clashes that marked the most significant military confrontations since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. The ceasefire, initiated on October 19, comes amid rising tensions exacerbated by Pakistani airstrikes targeting Taliban militants in Afghanistan, which Kabul condemned as a violation of sovereignty. A monitoring mechanism will be established to ensure adherence to the ceasefire and impose penalties for violations, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for November 6. This development underscores the ongoing challenges in regional stability, as both nations seek to establish cooperative relations amidst persistent security concerns along their lengthy border.