Peshawar peace jirga planned as Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions rise

A joint Pakistan-Afghanistan peace jirga has been scheduled in Peshawar for March 31, as tensions between the two neighbours remain high. Organisers said the gathering will bring together political figures, tribal elders, religious scholars, civil society representatives, business leaders and members of the media to shape a common roadmap for peace, stability and dialogue.

Former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief secretary Arbab Shezad Khan said the jirga would focus on trust-building, mutual respect and serious negotiations, with a joint declaration expected at the end of the meeting. Participants are expected to urge Islamabad and Kabul to implement an immediate ceasefire, reduce tensions and settle disputes through diplomatic channels.

The development comes against the backdrop of Pakistan's ongoing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq and months of friction along the border. Organisers also indicated that similar jirgas could later be held in Quetta and other areas to widen support for regional de-escalation.