MILITARY
Security forces killed 13 militants in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday.
The operations, carried out on March 30, targeted militants described by the military as belonging to “Indian Proxy Fitna al Khawarij,” a term used by the state for members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Details of the Operations
The first operation took place in the Bara area of Khyber district, where security forces engaged militant positions based on intelligence reports. According to ISPR, troops effectively targeted the hideout, resulting in the killing of 10 militants after an intense exchange of fire.
In a separate operation in Bannu district, security forces killed three additional militants. Authorities stated that follow-up sanitisation operations are ongoing to ensure the complete clearance of the area and eliminate any remaining threats.
The military emphasized that the broader counter-terrorism campaign is being carried out under the framework of “Azm-e-Istehkam,” a national strategy approved under the National Action Plan to combat terrorism.
Leadership Commends Forces
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces for successfully carrying out the operations.
In their statements, both leaders reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate what they termed “foreign-backed terrorism.” President Zardari affirmed that operations would continue to ensure national security and safeguard citizens, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the armed forces as a “solid wall” protecting the country.
Rising Security Concerns
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed a sharp rise in militant activity over the past year. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), fatalities in the province increased significantly, rising from 1,620 in 2024 to 2,331 in 2025.
The resurgence of militancy, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, has prompted intensified counter-terrorism operations across the country.
Earlier in March, security forces killed five militants in an operation in Lakki Marwat. In another series of operations a week prior, 13 militants were eliminated in multiple engagements across the province.
Ongoing Counter-Terror Campaign
Officials reiterated that security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to continuing operations at full pace to eliminate militant threats and restore stability.
With ongoing operations and heightened vigilance, authorities aim to curb the resurgence of militancy and ensure long-term peace in affected regions.