Torkham Border Reopens After 25-Day Closure as Pakistan and Afghanistan Agree to Ceasefire

The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan reopened on March 19, 2025, after a 25-day closure.

The reopening followed successful negotiations between the two countries, which included an agreement on a ceasefire. The border was initially opened for trade, with trucks carrying commercial goods resuming their journey into Afghanistan.

Pedestrians and patients were scheduled to be allowed to cross from Friday onwards, although patients requiring immediate treatment were permitted to enter earlier.

The closure was triggered by tensions over the construction of a bunker by Afghan forces near the border, which led to clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces on February 21, 2025.

The dispute resulted in significant economic losses, with around 5,000 commercial trucks stranded on both sides of the border.

As part of the agreement, Afghan officials agreed to halt the construction of the controversial checkposts that had caused tensions. A ceasefire will remain in place until the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting takes place, aiming to ensure stability in the region.

The Torkham border is crucial for trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, facilitating daily trade worth approximately $3 million and seeing the movement of around 10,000 people. The reopening is expected to restore economic activity and ease travel for traders and citizens.