POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Over 100 Khawarij Killed in Counterterror Operations During Ceasefire: Attaullah Tarar

Info Minister Attaullah Tarar says Pakistan’s security forces foiled multiple cross-border terror attacks from Afghanistan during the ceasefire, killing over 100 Khawarij — including 60–70 in precision strikes on Gul Bahadur group hideouts.
2025-10-18
Over 100 Khawarij Killed in Counterterror Operations During Ceasefire: Attaullah Tarar

Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced that Pakistan’s security forces killed more than 100 Khawarij terrorists during a series of counterterror operations along the Pak-Afghan border, including precision strikes targeting the Gul Bahadur group in North and South Waziristan.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the minister said that during the 48-hour ceasefire, foreign militants from Afghanistan attempted to launch multiple terrorist attacks inside Pakistan. However, these attempts were effectively foiled by Pakistan’s security forces, who carried out targeted operations in response.

“Our security forces responded effectively to the attacks launched by foreigners from Afghan soil, targeting verified hideouts of the Gul Bahadur group in border areas,” Tarar said. “More than 100 Khawarij were eliminated in these operations.”

According to Tarar, intelligence-based precision strikes were conducted against the foreign-backed Gul Bahadur group, resulting in the deaths of at least 60 to 70 Khawarij in one night.


IED Attack and Retaliation

The minister confirmed that the Gul Bahadur group carried out an improvised explosive device (IED) attack on a vehicle in North Waziristan, resulting in the martyrdom of a soldier and a civilian, while several others sustained injuries.

He said Pakistan’s forces responded with force and precision, neutralizing terrorist elements responsible for the attack.

“All claims suggesting civilian casualties are false and baseless,” Tarar asserted. “Such misinformation is part of a propaganda campaign to create sympathy for terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil.”


Pakistan Urges Afghan Action Against Terror Groups

Minister Tarar reiterated that Pakistan does not seek escalation with Afghanistan but urged the Taliban authorities to take verifiable action against non-state actors responsible for terrorism.

“The complex issue of terrorism originating from Afghan soil, often backed by Indian elements, must be addressed through dialogue and control over these actors,” he said.

He emphasized that Pakistan reserves the right to defend its sovereignty and people, adding:

“We will not allow terrorists operating from Afghan soil to find sanctuary or peace while threatening Pakistan’s security.”


Background

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, following multiple cross-border attacks and Pakistan’s precision strikes on terrorist hideouts across the border.

Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and affiliated groups of using Afghan territory to stage attacks inside Pakistan.

The recent operations reflect Pakistan’s renewed counterterrorism resolve as it continues to protect its borders and citizens while engaging diplomatically to maintain regional stability.