Pakistan allows entry for critically ill Afghan newborn at Torkham

Pakistan has allowed a critically ill Afghan newborn and the child’s parents to enter through the Torkham border. File photo
Pakistan has allowed a critically ill Afghan newborn and the child’s parents to enter through the Torkham border. File photo
Published August 3, 2026 12:00 AM
PESHAWAR (Web Desk): Pakistan has allowed a critically ill Afghan newborn and the child’s parents to enter through the Torkham border, enabling the infant to receive urgent medical treatment at a hospital in Peshawar.

Newborn shifted to Hayatabad Medical Complex

Soon after entering Pakistan, the newborn was shifted to Hayatabad Medical Complex in Peshawar for emergency treatment. Doctors at the hospital immediately began providing the medical care required to stabilise the infant’s condition.

Hospital officials said the baby’s health is being closely monitored, and treatment is continuing under the supervision of specialist doctors. Authorities said every possible effort is being made to provide the child with the best available medical care.

Humanitarian decision prioritised urgent treatment

Officials said the special permission was granted solely on humanitarian grounds. They explained that the infant required immediate medical attention, making it essential to allow the family to cross the border without delay.

Authorities stressed that humanitarian cases involving life-saving treatment are given special consideration. The decision reflects Pakistan’s willingness to assist people facing medical emergencies, regardless of nationality.

The family travelled from Jalalabad

According to officials, the newborn’s family travelled from Jalalabad in eastern Afghanistan to reach the Torkham border crossing. After completing the necessary procedures, Pakistani authorities allowed the family to enter the country for medical treatment.

Officials said coordination between border authorities and the relevant departments helped ensure a smooth and timely crossing. The swift response reduced delays and enabled doctors to begin treatment as quickly as possible.

Border cooperation supports emergency cases

Authorities said coordination at border crossings remains important during medical emergencies. They noted that close cooperation between the relevant departments can help save lives by ensuring patients receive timely treatment.

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Officials added that humanitarian decisions are taken after carefully assessing each case. They said the welfare of vulnerable patients remains an important consideration during medical emergencies.

Gesture reflects humanitarian cooperation

The decision has been widely viewed as an example of humanitarian compassion and cross-border medical cooperation. Officials said helping critically ill patients during emergencies reflects shared humanitarian values.

They added that cooperation in health-related emergencies can strengthen goodwill between neighbouring countries. Observers believe such actions highlight the importance of putting human lives first during times of need.

Hayatabad Medical Complex plays a key role

Hayatabad Medical Complex is one of the leading public hospitals in Peshawar and regularly treats patients requiring specialised medical care. The hospital receives emergency cases from different parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and, when necessary, from neighbouring regions.

Medical teams at the facility are equipped to handle a wide range of critical conditions. Officials said experienced doctors are continuing to monitor the newborn’s condition around the clock.

Humanitarian assistance remains important

Medical emergencies often require swift decisions and close coordination between health authorities and border officials. Experts say timely access to treatment can significantly improve a patient’s chances of recovery, especially in the case of newborns.

They believe humanitarian cooperation during emergencies can save lives and strengthen trust between neighbouring countries. Authorities said every effort will continue to ensure that the infant receives the medical care needed.

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