Afghan and Pakistani clerics demand an extension of the truce till Eidul Azha.

Religious scholars from Afghanistan and Pakistan have jointly urged both sides’ government to prolong the ceasefire, which was first declared for Eidul Fitr, till Eidul Azha.

Eleven clerics from each nation emphasized the need for ongoing moderation and communication during the Pak-Afghan conflict in a joint statement released on Tuesday. They characterized their endeavor as an earnest attempt to foster a long-lasting and peaceful settlement of tensions between the two neighbors.

In order to guarantee a tranquil setting for religious celebrations, especially the approaching Hajj season, the experts encouraged both Islamabad and Kabul to prolong the truce until Eidul Azha.

They added that their efforts would go beyond this appeal and include social and diplomatic activities meant to resolve long-standing conflicts in a way that is acceptable to all parties. The clerics expressed optimism that these actions could lead to long-term peace and stability in the area.

Days before Eidul Fitr, on March 18, Attaullah Tarar, Pakistan’s information minister, declared the truce. The administration claims that petitions and consultations from friendly Muslim nations, including as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, led to the decision.

As part of Pakistan’s ongoing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, military operations were suspended from the evening of March 18–19 to March 23–24. The Afghan Taliban had been involved in cross-border fire, which prompted the operation.