Pakistan announced on March 11 that all border crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan will remain closed, citing ongoing security concerns along the 2,600-kilometer frontier. The decision follows deadly clashes earlier this month which marked some of the fiercest fighting between both nations since Taliban forces took control of Kabul in 2021.

Escalated Tensions and Border Conflicts

Violence flared on October 11th 2025 when Afghan troops opened fire on Pakistani border posts as a response to airstrikes targeting a Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leader in Kabul by Pakistani air forces. Pakistan then fired artillery fire against those Afghan posts which they destroyed with artillery fire as part of an exchange that left both sides suffering casualties resulting in numerous deaths on both sides and led to closures at Torkham and Chaman border crossings, reported Reuters.
Ceasefire Agreement and Continued Border Closure

Following appeals from Qatar and Turkey, both nations reached an agreement for a ceasefire on October 15, 2025 to end violence and prevent more casualties. Although Pakistan agreed to the truce, its border crossings remain closed to Afghanistan due to priorities related to national security versus trade or transit activities (AP News).
Economic Effect and Trade Disruptions

The prolonged closure of the border has severely disrupted trade between both nations, estimated at an annual value of approximately $2.3 billion. Essential goods like tomatoes and apples have seen price hikes due to shortages. Both traders and business communities on either side are now pushing for its reopening as soon as possible so as to resume economic activities and resume economic activity on both sides. Reuters
Humanitarian Concerns and Refugee Movements: Trends Analysis

This closure has had an adverse impact on Afghan refugees living in Pakistan, leaving many stranded at border points. While Chaman crossing remains open for Afghans to exit Afghanistan and return home, entry from Afghanistan (trade and pedestrian movement) remains suspended. To understand further the impacts of these developments on these efforts and prospects for diplomatic work.

On October 25, 2025 in Istanbul, Pakistani and Afghan officials are to meet again to assess the current situation and explore avenues for reopening their respective borders. The outcome of this meeting will have a great bearing on future bilateral relationships as well as cross-border activities being resumed.

Conclusion In conclusion, while the ceasefire has provided temporary respite from violence between Pakistan and Afghanistan, its continued closure of border crossings highlights its fragility. Therefore, diplomatic talks will play an integral part in shaping lasting stability and cooperation within this region.