Violence in Pakistan’s Kurram District
Fighting between armed Sunni and Shiite groups in Kurram district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, resulted in at least 37 deaths and 25 injuries. This violence occurred overnight, following a recent gun ambush that killed 42 people.
Shiite Muslims comprise about 15% of Pakistan’s population, which is primarily Sunni. Despite generally peaceful coexistence, tensions persist, particularly in Kurram. Armed men set fires to shops, houses, and government buildings. The ongoing conflict involves the Alizai and Bagan tribes in Lower Kurram.
Local police officer Saleem Shah reported that educational institutions are closed due to the unrest, and both groups are using heavy weapons against each other. Videos show a market on fire, accompanied by gunfire.
A government team arrived in Parachinar to mediate the situation. Muhammad Ali Saif, a provincial government spokesman, indicated meetings with tribal leaders aim to establish a cease-fire and lasting peace.
The recent violence is linked to an earlier convoy attack, where gunmen fired on passing vehicles. The motive for this attack remains unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility.
Since July, numerous fatalities have affected both Sunni and Shiite communities, following a land dispute that escalated into sectarian violence.
