Pakistan and Afghanistan have announced a temporary halt in military operations to mark the Islamic festival of Eid-al-Fitr, in a rare pause following days of escalating tensions.

The ceasefire comes just two days after a deadly airstrike in Kabul that sharply worsened relations between the two neighbours.

Deadly Kabul Strike Sparks Dispute

The Afghan Taliban said hundreds were killed and injured in the strike on a drug rehabilitation centre, though the United Nations reported lower casualty figures.

Pakistan rejected the claims, stating that it had targeted what it described as militant infrastructure, including facilities linked to drones and weapons storage.

The site, known as Camp Phoenix, has become the centre of conflicting narratives, with both sides disputing whether it was a civilian or military target.

Pause Framed As Goodwill Gesture

Pakistan said the pause in operations was a gesture of goodwill during Eid and followed requests from countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey.

Afghanistan soon echoed the move, announcing a halt to defensive operations for the same period.

However, both sides warned that they would respond if attacked, signalling that the truce remains fragile.

Conflict Rooted In Rising Tensions

The conflict between the two countries has intensified over the past year, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of harbouring militant groups a charge denied by the Taliban government.

Recent strikes have marked a shift, with Pakistan directly targeting Afghan territory rather than limiting operations to militant groups.

Uncertainty Over Ground Reality

Independent experts say it is difficult to verify claims about the Kabul strike without a neutral investigation.

Some analysts suggest the possibility that civilian and military facilities may have been located close to each other, increasing the risk of casualties.

(with inputs from Reuters)