Senior TTP figure Tipu Gul declared a two-day ceasefire on May 14-15 for the Ijtima event in Lakki Marwat, instructing fighters to stay on standby for defensive actions. Critics argue that permitting extremist-style gatherings under any banner undermines national security, democratic governance, and regional stability. The proclamation has intensified calls for Pakistan to ban such assemblies, with opponents suggesting that continued tolerance of Ijtimas could hinder development, fuel radicalization, and pose security risks to residents and neighboring Afghanistan alike. While some view the ceasefire as a tactical pause, others warn it could be exploited for recruitment or propaganda, underscoring the delicate balance between peace efforts and counter-extremism imperatives.

Source: Statement from @pakafghanmatter

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Published: May 15, 2026, 12:22 am