Security forces have carried out a significant intelligence-based operation in Dera Ismail Khan. During the action, they eliminated 22 India-backed militants linked with the outfit Fitna al-Khwarij. The operation highlighted the increasing intensity of counter-terror efforts under the broader national security framework.
Militants Linked to Foreign Support Eliminated
According to the official statement, the targeted group was connected with an Indian proxy network. Security officials engaged the militants during the IBO and successfully neutralised all 22 individuals. Their presence indicated continued attempts by hostile elements to destabilise the region.
Sanitisation Operation Underway in the Area
A sanitisation operation is also being conducted in the surrounding localities. The objective is to clear any remaining India-sponsored militants hiding within the terrain. This step ensures that no threat remains active after the primary operation. Moreover, it strengthens regional stability in a sensitive district.
Counter-Terror Efforts Continue Under Azm-e-Istehkam
Authorities reiterated that the counter-terrorism campaign, aligned with vision “Azm-e-Istehkam,” will continue with full determination. The strategy focuses on eliminating foreign-backed terrorism and preventing cross-border interference. Additionally, security forces are working to ensure that extremist networks lose operational space across the country.
Pakistan’s Rising Violence Trends in 2025
However, the development comes during a troubling period. Pakistan has witnessed a sharp increase in violence during the third quarter of 2025. The latest data shows a 46% surge in incidents compared with earlier months of the year. This rise includes deaths of militants, civilians, and security personnel.
The country reported 901 fatalities and 599 injuries across 329 violent incidents. These events included terror attacks as well as counter-terror operations. The ongoing year is already nearing the fatality levels of 2024, which recorded 2,546 deaths.
KP and Balochistan Continue to Face the Hardest Hit
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan remain the most targeted regions. Both provinces share porous borders with Afghanistan, making them vulnerable. Together, they accounted for over 96% of violent incidents nationwide.
KP suffered the highest toll, recording 638 fatalities, which formed nearly 71% of the total deaths. The province also reported more than 67% of the overall violent incidents. Balochistan followed with 230 fatalities and 85 incidents.
When compared with Q2, both regions showed notable increases. KP saw a 64% rise in casualties, while Balochistan recorded a 21% increase. These numbers show a worrying trend that continues to challenge national security.
A Critical Operation in a Critical Year
The DI Khan operation therefore marks a crucial achievement at a time of rising instability. By eliminating 22 militants in one action, security forces have strengthened their ongoing efforts to curb foreign-backed terrorism. Continued vigilance and coordinated operations remain essential as the country navigates a difficult security landscape.
