Installation of ‘Welcome to Pakistan’ signboard apparent cause of latest closure.
Torkham borader closure heightens Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions. In a recent development, Afghan authorities decided to close the Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan in protest against the installation of a ‘Welcome to Pakistan’ signboard at the crossing’s Zero Point. The closure affected both vehicle and pedestrian traffic, impacting a vital trading route where Afghanistan exports coal and receives essential supplies from Pakistan.
Tensions between the two nations have escalated, exacerbated by Pakistan’s shift in policy toward the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan announced that it would no longer grant “special privileges” to the interim Afghan Taliban government, signaling a departure from its previous stance. Islamabad had faced criticism for serving as the Afghan Taliban government’s spokesperson, but officials argued that cooperation was necessary given the reality on the ground.
Pakistan had previously made efforts, along with regional partners, to lift sanctions against the Afghan Taliban government and release frozen funds after the fall of Kabul in August 2021. However, recent developments indicate a shift in Pakistan’s approach, with no willingness to extend special favors to the Afghan Taliban government, citing concerns about harboring perceived enemies.
More From Daily The Destination: Afghanistan to hand over Hafiz Gul Bahadur to Pakistan, Jan Achkazai
The strained relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan is further complicated by the presence of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) sanctuaries across the border. Additionally, Pakistan’s decision to repatriate Afghans without refugee status or visas has soured relations with the Taliban government, leading to growing tensions between the neighboring countries.
