Pakistani Border Guards Temporarily Close Torkham Crossing for Ashura

Pakistani border guards have temporarily closed the Torkham crossing for two days due to Ashura during the month of Muharram. This action halts the entry of migrants at the border point.

The crossing had been closed to all movement and trade after border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistani forces in the month of Hoot last solar year. Three weeks after those clashes, the crossing was conditionally and intermittently reopened for migrant deportations following talks between Taliban officials and Pakistan.

The crossing remains closed to commercial trade and most travelers, with only migrants allowed to cross under the limited arrangement. The temporary closure for Ashura means the crossing will reopen on Saturday specifically for migrant deportations. Despite multiple rounds of talks between Taliban officials and Pakistani authorities, no comprehensive agreement has been reached to resume full activities at the crossing. Pakistani officials have not yet provided an official comment on the temporary closure.