SYED UMAIR ALI
In response to the recent sectarian violence in Kurram District, a grand peace jirga convened in Kohat has made significant progress toward restoring peace in the region. The unrest began on November 21, 2024, when gunmen ambushed a convoy of Shia Muslims traveling from Parachinar to Peshawar, resulting in at least 42 deaths and numerous injuries.
The attack triggered a series of violent clashes between Sunni and Shia communities, leading to over 130 fatalities, including women and children. The violence also caused the closure of the Kohat-Parachinar highway, disrupting essential supplies and movement in the area.
The jirga, comprising local officials, former lawmakers, and tribal elders, has been engaged in intensive negotiations to broker a ceasefire and establish lasting peace. After multiple sessions, the jirga has finalized a draft agreement addressing key issues, including the surrender of heavy weapons by the conflicting parties—a critical step for reopening the highway and restoring normalcy.
Despite these advancements, some groups have requested additional time to consult with their elders before committing to the agreement. Consequently, the jirga has extended the deadline to accommodate these consultations, emphasizing the importance of a consensus-based approach to ensure the durability of the peace accord.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has underscored the necessity of disarming militant factions to facilitate the safe reopening of transportation routes and the delivery of humanitarian aid. The ongoing blockade has had severe repercussions, including shortages of food and medicine, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The jirga’s efforts have been met with cautious optimism from the local populace, who are hopeful that the agreement will bring an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued Kurram District. Community leaders have called for unity and cooperation to ensure the successful implementation of the peace agreement and the prevention of future conflicts.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on achieving a comprehensive and sustainable resolution that addresses the underlying causes of the conflict, promotes reconciliation, and ensures the safety and well-being of all residents in the affected areas.
AMBREEN ADNAN
