Authorities in Pakistan's northwest have issued an order for warring tribes in the Kurram district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to surrender their weapons following weeks of violent clashes that have claimed the lives of at least 130 people. The violence erupted on Nov. 21 with an ambush on a vehicle convoy that resulted in the deaths of 52 individuals, predominantly Shiite Muslims. The incident led to retaliatory attacks and arson by rival groups in various areas.
The provincial government has mandated a 15-day period for the voluntary collection of weapons, with a deadline set for February. Additionally, authorities have instructed the dismantling of bunkers and the periodic reopening of roads for humanitarian purposes, with security personnel assigned to safeguard convoys and address transportation challenges.
Both conflicting parties have been urged to refrain from violent actions to ensure the uninterrupted operation of ground routes. Failure to comply may result in the closure of routes by the administration. However, a group of Shiite scholars has expressed concerns that the disarmament could leave the community vulnerable to terrorist attacks, as they have historically been targeted by militant groups in the region.
While Shiite Muslims are predominant in parts of Kurram, they constitute a minority in the broader Pakistani population. Despite a history of sectarian tensions, they coexist peacefully with the Sunni Muslim majority in the country. The government's intervention aims to restore peace and stability in the region and prevent further loss of life due to ongoing conflicts.
