Pakistan closes Torkham crossing to Afghan patients, Nangarhar official says

Abdul Basir Zabuli, spokesperson for the Taliban police in Nangarhar, has reported that Pakistan has closed the Torkham crossing to Afghan patients.

Simultaneously, the Taliban-controlled Bakhtar News Agency reported that Pakistan has closed the Torkham crossing to all Afghans as of Wednesday, July 24th.

According to Abdul Basir Zabuli, the Torkham crossing remains open for regular visa holders and commercial vehicles. However, Bakhtar News reported that Pakistani soldiers are not allowing any Afghan with a visa to enter.

The Taliban police spokesperson in Nangarhar stated that Pakistan is only preventing entry for those with medical visas.

Pakistan has yet to comment on this situation.

The lack of medical facilities in Afghanistan has led many to seek treatment in neighboring countries like Pakistan and Iran, but the process of obtaining visas and passports has posed significant challenges for Afghan citizens.

The closure of the Torkham crossing has exacerbated the difficulties faced by Afghan refugees and patients in accessing necessary medical care. This restriction adds to the growing humanitarian crisis and underscores the urgent need for more accessible medical and logistical support for those in distress.

Moreover, the situation highlights the broader issues of refugee management and cross-border cooperation. Effective and compassionate solutions are needed to address the needs of Afghan refugees and ensure they receive the assistance and care they require amidst ongoing regional challenges.

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