Bajaur: The National Peace Jirga, formed to end weeks of tension in Bajaur, has been granted an extension until 6 p.m. today (Sunday) to conclude negotiations with terrorists.
According to the jirga’s official statement, terrorists agreed to a complete ceasefire while talks continue. “We are committed to playing every possible role to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed,” the statement said. If negotiations succeed, a final peace agreement will be presented to the tribal community soon.
The latest extension follows the first round of formal talks between the jirga and the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) also Known as Fitna al-Khawarij, August 2, in a mosque in Mamund tehsil. During that meeting, jirga members urged terrorists to withdraw from civilian areas or return to Afghanistan.
“We demanded that the armed groups either return to Afghanistan or, if they are intent on fighting, leave populated areas and move toward the mountains,” said jirga member Dr. Khalil-ur-Rehman in a media briefing.
The banned TTP representatives reportedly told the jirga they would convey the message to their leadership in Afghanistan. The group has not issued an official statement. Pakistani officials estimate that around 4,000 TTP fighters are currently operating from Afghan soil, a claim the Taliban administration in Kabul denies. Adding to tensions, the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) reported on August 1 that groups such as al-Qaeda, the banned TTP, and Islamic State–Khorasan continue to operate from within Afghanistan.
Separately, earlier this year, afghan media reported that TTP members had sought to acquire drones in Kabul and other Afghan cities for use against Pakistani forces. With the clock ticking toward the 6 p.m. deadline, hopes remain pinned on the jirga’s ability to broker a lasting deal.
