MILITARY

22 Terrorists Killed, 18 Injured in Tirah Valley Operations: ISPR

Security forces neutralized 22 terrorists and injured 18 others in intelligence-based operations in Tirah Valley, Khyber district. Efforts to restore peace and eliminate terrorism continue.
2025-01-16
22 Terrorists Killed, 18 Injured in Tirah Valley Operations: ISPR

Security forces have successfully neutralized 22 terrorists and injured 18 others in a series of intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in the Tirah Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Khyber district since December 14, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Thursday.

The ISPR revealed that the operations were launched in response to a spate of terrorist activities in the Tirah Valley that targeted both security forces and innocent civilians. The operations, aimed at restoring peace in the region, are ongoing, with a firm resolve to eliminate terrorism from the area.

“Terrorists have been successfully neutralized, and the operations will continue until peace is fully restored,” the ISPR statement read, emphasizing the military's commitment to combating terrorism.

President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for their dedication and success in neutralizing threats. “Our determination to eliminate terrorist elements and defend the country will remain unwavering,” he affirmed. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed similar sentiments, commending the forces and expressing the nation’s full support in the fight against terrorism.

The Situation in Tirah Valley

The Tirah Valley has recently seen a surge in terrorist activities, with militants associated with banned outfits like Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Lashkar-i-Islam, Amarat-i-Islami, and the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group operating in the region. Sources indicated that these militants had taken refuge in the hilly terrain and vacant houses to evade security forces.

Residents reported being forced to provide food and shelter to heavily armed terrorists, fearing retribution. However, the ongoing operations have significantly disrupted their movements, with many fleeing to neighboring areas or returning to Afghanistan.

The Broader Counterterrorism Effort

Pakistan has witnessed a rise in terror activities, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement with the TTP in 2022. According to the Center for Research and Security Studies, 2024 was the deadliest year for Pakistan’s security forces in a decade, with 444 terror attacks resulting in 685 casualties among security personnel.

Despite the challenges, security forces conducted 59,775 operations in 2024, neutralizing 925 terrorists. The latest operations in Tirah Valley are part of this broader strategy to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace in the region.

With the unwavering support of the nation and the leadership's resolve, Pakistan continues its fight to eradicate terrorism and ensure the safety of its citizens.