Afghanistan and Pakistan agreed Sunday to a Qatar- and Turkey-brokered ceasefire, taking effect immediately amid an escalation of border fighting this month. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the signed accord halts hostile acts, bars targeting each other’s forces, civilians and infrastructure, and forbids support for groups attacking Pakistan, with a mediator-led mechanism to review claims. Pakistan’s defense minister confirmed, saying cross-border terrorism from Afghan territory will cease, and a follow-up meeting is set for Oct. 25 in Istanbul. The clashes have killed dozens, injured hundreds, and snarled trade: Torkham is closed, while Chaman allows only Afghan refugees to exit.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.