A week-long ceasefire has been arranged by Pakistani officials in response to a rise in sectarian violence that caused over 80 fatalities in the northwestern region. The clashes, which erupted over three days in the Kurram tribal district near the Afghan border, also left 156 individuals injured. The unrest began with an assault on Shia Muslim convoys under police protection, leading to retaliatory attacks.

The conflict has deep roots, with Shia and Sunni Muslims involved in territorial and sectarian disputes for many years. After discussions on Sunday, government spokesperson Muhammad Ali Saif announced that leaders from both sects had consented to end the hostilities. Reports indicated that the recent attacks resulted in 82 deaths, with a breakdown of 16 Sunni and 66 Shia victims.

Among those killed were women and children, with survivors recounting harrowing experiences. One passenger, Saeeda Bano, expressed her fear of death as she sheltered under car seats with her children during the assault. The violence prompted many residents to flee, seeking safety from the escalating conflict.

A Sunni villager shared that while his family had escaped to safer areas, he remained behind amidst the chaos. He described the constant gunfire that filled the night and the desperate measures families were taking to protect themselves from the cold and violence. The recent spate of attacks has intensified calls for peace from local tribal leaders.