Deep in the heart of Pakistan, in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a wave of sectarian violence has bloodied the Kurram district region, making headlines in recent times. In the last ten days, at least 130 people have lost their lives, while 200 others have been injured, in clashes between different communities.
The conflict erupted in the Kurram district on November 21, when a convoy of vehicles was targeted by assailants, killing 52 people, mainly Shia Muslims. The attack, which was not claimed by any group, led to retaliatory shootings and arson attacks by rival factions in several areas.
In the last 24 hours, 14 people have lost their lives and 27 have been injured in fresh violence. Although a seven-day ceasefire was brokered by the authorities on 24 November, it has not held. Negotiations are ongoing with tribal elders to try to reach a ceasefire agreement, and security forces have been deployed to secure peace.
Kurram district is predominantly populated by Shia Muslims, while they are a minority in the rest of the country. Historically, Shia and Sunni communities have coexisted peacefully, but since last July, sectarian clashes have erupted over a land dispute.
Despite efforts, the ongoing violence is having a serious impact on the daily lives of people in the area. Roads remain blocked, hampering the supply of food, fuel and medicine. Trade and travel across the Kharlachi border with Afghanistan have been disrupted.
This climate of violence and uncertainty has had a profound impact on local populations, who are facing increasing hardship. Peace and stability remain crucial issues for the future of the region, which is plagued by persistent tensions between different communities.
As the authorities seek to restore calm in Kurram, it is essential to put an end to this spiral of sectarian violence to preserve social cohesion and living together in this part of Pakistan.