The Torkham crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan was closed again on March 27, 2026, following a cross-border firing incident that resulted in injuries to a Frontier Corps soldier. This closure comes after the crossing was briefly reopened to facilitate the deportation of undocumented Afghan nationals.
Officials reported that the crossing had been opened on March 26, 2026, to repatriate Afghan citizens detained under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act for lacking valid documentation. During this initial phase, approximately 292 Afghan nationals were sent back to Afghanistan.
The process, however, was abruptly halted when gunfire erupted from the Afghan side, causing serious injuries to an FC personnel. In response, Pakistani authorities immediately shut the crossing and withdrew deployed staff due to escalating security concerns.
Preparations for the repatriation process, including a temporary holding camp in Landi Kotal, had been completed, with further deportations of illegally residing Afghan nationals anticipated. However, these operations have been suspended following the latest incident.
The Torkham border has experienced closures since February 24, amid ongoing tensions and intermittent clashes between Pakistani security forces and the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. A similar escalation occurred on October 11, 2025, leading to a suspension of bilateral trade and a complete halt to cross-border movement.
Efforts are underway to resume the repatriation process, but any decision on reopening the crossing will depend on the prevailing security situation, officials stated.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 28, 2026
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