- Pakistan's security forces carried out an intelligence-based ground operation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, killing 29 militants during the operation and subsequent strikes on militant hideouts, according to the Associated Press.
- The operation was launched in response to multiple militant attacks across the country, as stated by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on social media.
- Calibrated strikes targeted hideouts and safe havens of the Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has been blamed for much of the violence in Pakistan.
- The operation comes a day after militants attacked a paramilitary headquarters in Karachi, resulting in the deaths of three soldiers.
- The strikes also targeted locations in Afghanistan, destroying three targets in the provinces of Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar.
- The Pakistani Taliban is distinct from the Afghan Taliban, although both groups are allies.
- Pakistan has conducted previous operations in Afghanistan targeting militant hideouts in response to terrorist attacks within its borders.
- The latest operations are expected to further strain relations between Islamabad and Kabul.
Pakistan's security forces conducted a significant operation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of 29 militants. This action was a direct response to a surge in militant violence, including a recent attack in Karachi that claimed the lives of three soldiers.145
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that the operation was initiated due to multiple attacks targeting police and security forces across the country. The Pakistani Taliban, or Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), along with its factions, have been blamed for much of the violence. Tarar noted that the operation involved intelligence-based ground actions and calibrated strikes on militant hideouts, particularly targeting groups like Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Fitna al-Khwarij.236
The strikes destroyed three targets in the Afghan provinces of Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar, resulting in the deaths of several suspected terrorists. Local reports indicated that more than 30 people were killed and over 100 injured in these airstrikes. Tarar emphasized that while Pakistan seeks to maintain peace and stability in the region, the safety and security of its citizens remain a top priority.
The operation is expected to further strain relations between Islamabad and Kabul, as Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban government of harboring militants responsible for attacks within its borders.8
“Pakistan's security forces conducted a ground operation along the Afghan border, resulting in the deaths of 29 militants. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat militant groups, including the Pakistani Taliban.”
AP News
CBS News
