Catholic Bishops Praise Pakistan Army for Border Defense Amid Afghanistan Ceasefire

LAHORE, Pakistan — As Pakistan and Afghanistan marked a temporary ceasefire over Eid al-Fitr, Catholic bishops in Pakistan expressed support for the country’s military, praising the armed forces for their dedication and sacrifices in defending national borders.

Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi said in a March 23 message, “The country remains secure due to their unmatched sacrifices, allowing citizens to live in freedom.

The nation will always remember the bravery of its soldiers.”

The statement coincided with Pakistan National Day and came just a week after Kabul accused Islamabad of bombing a drug rehabilitation hospital in the Afghan capital, which reportedly killed and injured patients undergoing treatment.

Months of Escalating Violence

Pakistan and Afghanistan’s relations have been strained since the end of February, following months of cross-border clashes.

Pakistan declared what officials described as “open war” against Afghanistan, citing the sheltering of anti-Pakistan militants, including the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), responsible for attacks such as a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad.

The conflict has seen airstrikes targeting suspected militants on both sides, while the Afghan Taliban reportedly launched drone attacks in retaliation.

Both governments have repeatedly blamed each other for civilian casualties and instability.

Ceasefire and International Mediation

The Eid al-Fitr ceasefire, in effect from March 19–24, was arranged through the mediation of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey to ease tensions along the border.

Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed the temporary truce, emphasizing the role of diplomacy in preventing further escalation.

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Bishop Samson Shukardin of Hyderabad, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Pakistan, praised the ceasefire while urging dialogue between the two nations.

“We call for peace and an end to war. Together with Pope Leo XIV, we urge both sides to sit and dialogue.

At the same time, we stand in unity with the nation and all government departments, including the army,” he said.

Advocates Call for Balanced Perspective

Human rights activist Luke Victor welcomed the bishops’ message but emphasized the need for a measured approach.

“We appreciate defensive actions of our military but denounce overreach into politics.

Truth, justice, and human rights must remain our first priority,” he said.

Victor also highlighted the risks faced by minority groups, including Afghan Christians in Pakistan, many of whom served with U.S.-led forces.

He warned that forced deportations could endanger their lives, urging Church leaders to advocate for their protection alongside support for national defense.

Historical Context and Current Threats

Pakistan has a long history of military influence in politics, having directly ruled for nearly half of its 78-year history.

The country also ranks as the most terrorism-affected nation in the Global Terrorism Index 2026, with 1,139 deaths, 1,595 injuries, and 1,045 attacks in 2025 — a nearly 6% increase in fatalities compared with previous years.

Relations with Afghanistan have soured since 2021, when Pakistan initially welcomed the Taliban takeover as the “logical conclusion” of the U.S. withdrawal.

Now, Islamabad accuses Kabul of sheltering militants, a claim the Taliban denies.

Impact and Consequences

• Border tensions threaten civilian safety and regional stability.
• Military actions reinforce national security but raise concerns about human rights and minority protections.
• Afghan Christians and refugees remain at risk due to deportation policies and religious persecution.
• Diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan are fragile, increasing the risk of renewed conflict.
• Public trust in government and military strategies is closely tied to transparency and accountability.

What’s Next?

• Continued diplomatic engagement with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey may extend the ceasefire.
• Catholic Church leaders could play a mediating role, advocating for dialogue and minority protections.
• Human rights groups are expected to monitor military operations to ensure civilian safety.
• Pakistan and Afghanistan may negotiate formal mechanisms for border security and conflict prevention.

Summary

Amid rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Catholic bishops have voiced support for the Pakistani military while calling for peace and dialogue.

Human rights advocates urge a balanced approach that safeguards civilian lives and protects vulnerable groups, including Afghan Christians.

The ceasefire over Eid al-Fitr offers a temporary reprieve, but long-term stability hinges on diplomacy, minority protections, and restraint from all sides.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Catholic bishops praise Pakistani military for border defense amid Afghanistan conflict.
• Temporary Eid al-Fitr ceasefire arranged with mediation from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey.
• Pakistani-Afghan relations have deteriorated since February cross-border clashes.
• Human rights activists stress the importance of protecting minorities and civilian populations.
• Afghanistan accused of sheltering militants; Pakistan accused of airstrikes causing civilian casualties.
• Pakistan ranks as the most terrorism-affected country in the Global Terrorism Index 2026.
• Dialogue and diplomacy are key to ensuring lasting peace and regional stability.