Terrorist Attack
ISLAMABAD: A clearance operation by the Pakistan Army successfully thwarted a terrorist attack on the Mianwali Training Air Base of the Pakistan Air Force. In this operation, nine terrorists were killed.
Prior to this incident, a series of attacks had occurred, resulting in the martyrdom of at least 17 soldiers in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These incidents included a militant attack in Gwadar, a remote-controlled bomb explosion in Dera Ismail Khan, a security operation in Lakki Marwat, and another remote-controlled blast in Dera Ismail Khan that left five people dead and many others injured, including police officials.
Initially, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the attack on the air base had been foiled, with three terrorists neutralized and three others cornered or isolated. Later in the day, the military confirmed the successful conclusion of the “combing and clearance operation” at the airbase, with all nine terrorists eliminated. The operation aimed to eliminate any potential threats in the surrounding area following the failed terrorist attack.
The ISPR emphasized that none of the Pakistan Air Force’s operational assets were damaged, although some damage was inflicted on three non-operational aircraft during the attack. The statement underscored the armed forces’ readiness to defend the homeland against any threats and serve as a reminder to enemies of peace.
The Tehreek-i-Jihad Pakistan (TJP), a newly emerged militant group affiliated with the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed responsibility for the attack.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar commended the Pakistan Air Force for thwarting the terrorist attack and reiterated the nation’s support for their efforts. President Dr. Arif Alvi denounced the attack and expressed satisfaction at its failure, emphasizing the commitment to eliminate terrorists.
Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti stressed that despite different names, the same enemy is behind the recent wave of terror in Pakistan, describing it as a conspiracy to create uncertainty and instability in the country. He pledged unity among civil and military institutions to combat terrorism.
Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, acknowledging the determination of the nation’s enemies. He extended his prayers to the affected families and praised the armed forces for foiling the nefarious plans.
Former President Asif Ali Zardari also commended the security forces for their efforts and expressed the nation’s commitment to ending terrorism, vowing to continue the fight against those who promote hatred.
