Operations in Mohmand District
Pakistan’s security forces killed 13 terrorists in two separate intelligence-based operations carried out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military’s media wing said on Sunday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the first operation was conducted in the Mohmand district after receiving intelligence about the presence of Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists. During the operation, security personnel engaged the militants’ hideout, and after an intense exchange of fire, seven terrorists were neutralised.
Bannu IBO Neutralises More Militants
In a second intelligence-based operation in the Bannu district, security forces successfully eliminated six additional terrorists. The ISPR stated that the militants were actively involved in terrorist activities aimed at destabilising the region. The operation was executed with precision, preventing potential attacks on civilians and security personnel.
Ongoing Sanitisation Efforts
The military’s media wing confirmed that sanitisation operations are currently underway in both districts. These efforts aim to eliminate any remaining Indian-sponsored kharij elements in the area. The ISPR reiterated that Pakistan’s armed forces remain committed to eradicating terrorism and ensuring long-term peace and stability.
Part of Azm-e-Istehkam Campaign
The ISPR said the operations were conducted under Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, a nationwide counterterrorism campaign approved by the federal apex committee under the National Action Plan. The campaign focuses on intelligence-driven actions to dismantle terrorist networks across the country.
Rising Terror Threat Since 2021
Terrorist incidents have increased sharply in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, since the Afghan Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. Islamabad has repeatedly raised concerns about terrorist groups using Afghan soil to launch attacks against Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Stance on Afghan Soil Use
Pakistan has urged the Afghan Taliban government to prevent cross-border terrorism. Although Islamabad welcomed a recent resolution by Afghan scholars at Kabul University calling for non-use of Afghan territory against other nations, officials expressed concern that similar commitments in the past were not honoured.
Demand for Written Assurances
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi, during a briefing on December 11, reiterated Pakistan’s demand for written guarantees from Kabul. He stressed that Afghan territory must not be allowed to be used by terrorist groups targeting Pakistan.
