District Kurram has long been embroiled in conflict, driven by tribal land disputes and exacerbated by sectarian tensions. The region is home to both Sunni and Shia populations, with tribes such as the Turi, Bangash, Sayyid, and others. While the Turi Tribe is predominantly Shia, the others are a mix of both sects, creating a complex social dynamic.

Land disputes in Kurram date back to the 1930s, with conflicts over grazing rights and access to water. Land distribution was informal, based on tribal customs. Under British colonial rule, the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR) allowed local tribes to govern themselves but lacked formal law enforcement. This lack of governance continued after Pakistan's independence, contributing to escalating conflicts, which later assumed a sectarian dimension.

The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 brought anti-Soviet mujahideen, funded by the US and Pakistan, to Kurram. These Sunni militants, along with Afghan refugees, introduced a more radical version of Islam. At the same time, Iran's revolution influenced the Shia population, setting the stage for ideological and sectarian rifts that would worsen in the following decades.

The trigger of the sectarian divide could be traced to an incident in 1982 where violence forced over 60 Shia families to flee to Parachinar. A 1990 Jirga decision to return the displaced families was never implemented, leading to deep resentment and laying the groundwork for further conflicts.

In 2007, violence erupted between Sadda and Balash Khel, leaving around 20 dead. A Peace Jirga of Sunni and Shia elders brokered a ceasefire, but it collapsed in August after a suicide bombing killed 10 people. Further attacks in November escalated the violence, and by the end of the year, at least 80 people had died, including 11 soldiers.

The Murree Agreement of 2008 was intended to resolve tensions between the Bangash and Turi tribes. It included a permanent ceasefire, the return of fighters to their homes, and the reopening of the Thall-Parachinar Road.........

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