ISLAMABAD: The repatriation of Afghan nationals through the Torkham border crossing has resumed after nearly a month-long suspension, marking a cautious step towards normalisation following heightened tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The crossing, located in Pakistan’s Khyber district and linking with Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province, had remained closed since late February due to security concerns and cross-border hostilities. Its reopening comes after a series of negotiations between officials from both countries aimed at stabilising the situation.
According to Pakistani authorities, a total of 705 individuals from 223 families were repatriated on the first day of resumed operations. This included Afghan Citizen Card holders, individuals registered under Proof of Registration schemes, as well as undocumented migrants.
Officials said the group comprised men, women and a significant number of children, all of whom underwent comprehensive immigration and security checks before being allowed to cross into Afghanistan. The repatriation process is being carried out under strict supervision to ensure order and minimise security risks.
The reopening follows discussions between border security officials from both sides, who agreed on a coordinated mechanism to facilitate the phased return of Afghan nationals.
The process had previously been interrupted shortly after a temporary reopening due to a security incident, but subsequent engagements helped restore relative calm.
Despite the resumption of human movement, bilateral trade between the two countries remains suspended. Commercial activity at the crossing has been halted since October 2025 following earlier clashes, and further talks are expected to address its restoration.
The development comes against the backdrop of strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul. Pakistan has held that Afghanistan has failed to act against Tehreek-e-Taliban terrorists operating from Afghan territory, while Afghan authorities have denied it. Recent military actions and counterclaims have further escalated tensions between the two neighbours.
A temporary ceasefire agreed ahead of Eidul Fitr, reportedly facilitated by regional partners including Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, has helped create space for dialogue and limited cooperation, including the reopening of Torkham for repatriation purposes.
Pakistan has been implementing a nationwide campaign since 2023 to repatriate undocumented foreign nationals, with a significant focus on Afghan migrants. Officials maintain that the process will continue in a structured and gradual manner to ensure transparency and security.
As one of the busiest crossing points along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, Torkham plays a crucial role not only in human mobility but also in regional trade. Its partial reopening is seen as a tentative but important step towards easing tensions and restoring cross-border coordination.
