Taliban Announce Temporary Halt to Attacks Against Pakistan for Eid al-Fitr

KABUL (Afghan Verified) — The Taliban announced Wednesday a temporary halt to their attacks against Pakistan on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr.

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Taliban, stated that the group's security and defense forces would suspend what they describe as "defensive operations" during the Eid days. The decision followed requests from mediating countries including Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Qatar, according to the statement.

The Taliban appreciated the "goodwill and constructive efforts" of these countries to reduce tensions. However, they emphasized that protecting Afghanistan's national security and sovereignty remains a priority. "In the event of any threat, the Islamic Emirate will respond decisively," the statement said.

Border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistan have continued for the past three weeks. The United Nations reported that 76 civilians were killed in the first two weeks of these clashes.

On Monday evening, Pakistan targeted a medical center in eastern Kabul, the Taliban said, claiming 400 people were killed. Sources said at least 200 people, mostly patients at the center, died in the attack.

Pakistan previously announced it would temporarily halt its attacks against the Taliban following mediation efforts by regional countries.