Pakistanโs security forces eliminated 34 India-sponsored terroristsย during high-tempo intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. According to the militaryโs media wing, the operations targeted members of Fitna al-Khwarij and Fitna al-Hindustan. Consequently, authorities intensified counterterror efforts along sensitive border regions.
Coordinated Intelligence-Based Operations Across KP
The military confirmed that 26 militants were killed in four separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on February 24. Security forces detected the movement of a group attempting to infiltrate through the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Therefore, troops responded with a precise and coordinated engagement.
One militant, identified as an Afghan national linked to Fitna al-Khwarij, was neutralized during the infiltration attempt. Meanwhile, an intelligence-based operation took place in Lakki Marwat District. During an intense exchange of fire, three militants were killed.
In addition, troops conducted two separate engagements in the general area of Narmi Khel in Bannu District. Security forces eliminated 10 militants during those encounters. Furthermore, in Mir Ali, North Waziristan District, another intelligence-based operation resulted in the killing of 12 militants.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the deceased militants. Officials stated that those individuals had remained actively involved in multiple terrorist activities in the region.
Operation in Balochistanโs Zhob District
Simultaneously, security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation in the Sambaza area of Zhob District, Balochistan. During the engagement, eight militants linked to Fitna al-Hindustan were killed after a fierce gun battle.
The military emphasized that these operations formed part of a broader counterterrorism campaign under the vision of โAzm-e-Istehkam.โ This strategy was approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan. Consequently, sanitization operations continue in affected areas to eliminate any remaining threats.
Rising Tensions Along the Western Border
Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, cross-border attacks have increased in border provinces. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have witnessed frequent militant activity. Therefore, Pakistan has stepped up intelligence-driven actions along the frontier.
Recently, Pakistan conducted targeted airstrikes against seven militant camps across the border. The strikes focused on hideouts linked to Fitna al-Khwarij and Daesh-Khorasan. According to security sources, more than 80 militants were killed in those strikes.
Previously, border clashes erupted in October 2025 following attacks on Pakistani border posts. The confrontations resulted in the deaths of over 200 Taliban-affiliated militants. Meanwhile, 23 Pakistani soldiers were martyred during the clashes.
Despite multiple rounds of talks, tensions have persisted between Islamabad and Kabul. Officials cite reluctance by Afghan authorities to act decisively against militant groups. Consequently, security forces remain on high alert along the western frontier.
Ongoing Counterterrorism Commitment
The military reiterated its resolve to defend national frontiers. Officials confirmed that intelligence-based operations will continue at full pace. Moreover, law enforcement agencies remain aligned with the broader national security framework.
In conclusion, the recent operations signal a sustained push against foreign-sponsored militancy. Security forces continue to act decisively against infiltration attempts and organized terrorist networks. The counterterrorism campaign, therefore, remains a central priority in safeguarding Pakistanโs stability.

