Pakistan’s security forces killed five India-sponsored terrorists during two intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The operations were carried out in the districts of Tank and Dera Ismail Khan on May 7 and 8. According to the military, the actions were based on intelligence reports about the presence of militants in both areas.
Four Terrorists Killed in Tank
The first intelligence-based operation took place in Tank district.
During the operation, security personnel engaged a militant hideout. After an intense exchange of fire, four terrorists linked to the India-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij were killed.
The military said the operation was conducted after receiving credible information about the group’s presence in the area.
One Militant Neutralised in Dera Ismail Khan
In a separate operation in Dera Ismail Khan district, security forces killed one more terrorist.
The militant was neutralised after troops exchanged fire with armed terrorists during the intelligence-based operation.
As a result, the total number of militants killed in both operations rose to five.
Weapons and Ammunition Recovered
Security forces also recovered weapons and ammunition from the killed terrorists.
According to ISPR, the militants had remained actively involved in several terrorist activities in the region.
The recovered material will help investigators trace their network and operational links.
Sanitisation Operation Underway
Following the operations, troops launched a sanitisation operation in both areas.
The purpose of the exercise is to eliminate any remaining terrorists and secure the surrounding region.
Such follow-up operations are a routine part of counterterrorism efforts.
Military Reaffirms Commitment to Counterterrorism
The military reiterated its resolve to continue operations against terrorism.
In its statement, ISPR said:
“[…] relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm e Istehkam’ — as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan — by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored-and-supported terrorism from the country.”
The statement underscores Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining pressure on militant groups.
Rising Security Concerns Along the Afghan Border
Pakistan has witnessed a sharp rise in terrorist incidents since 2021, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Many of these attacks have occurred near the Afghan border.
Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban administration to stop terrorist groups from using Afghan territory to launch attacks inside Pakistan.
However, Pakistani officials say those concerns remain unresolved.
Operation Ghazab lil-Haq and Ongoing Tensions
In February 2026, Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq.
The operation came months after a ceasefire agreed in October 2025 following border clashes.
Despite several rounds of talks, Pakistan and Afghanistan have yet to reach a lasting agreement.
Officials say progress remains limited because of the Afghan Taliban’s reluctance to act against groups operating from its soil.
Pakistan’s Counterterrorism Campaign Continues
The latest operations in Tank and Dera Ismail Khan reflect Pakistan’s ongoing campaign against militancy.
Security forces continue to conduct intelligence-based operations to dismantle terrorist networks and protect civilians.
At the same time, authorities remain focused on eliminating foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.
