Twelve soldiers martyred, 27 injured in retaliatory strikes against Afghanistan
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s armed forces have launched Operation Ghazab Lil Haq in response to unprovoked cross-border aggression by the Afghan Taliban regime, resulting in the martyrdom of 12 brave soldiers, injuries to 27 others, and one remaining missing in action, according to the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR).
The operation, described as a decisive counter-offensive, came after repeated firing incidents from Afghan territory targeting multiple border sectors along the Durand Line.
Military officials emphasized that the action was necessary to safeguard Pakistan’s territorial integrity and repel threats posed by Taliban-linked militants.In a detailed press briefing, DG ISPR Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry revealed that Pakistani forces inflicted heavy casualties on the opposing side. A total of 274 Taliban regime personnel and associated khwarij elements were killed, while more than 400 sustained injuries during the engagements.
The strikes targeted key locations across several Afghan provinces, including Kabul, Kandahar, Paktia, Nangarhar, Khost, and Paktika. Reports indicate that 22 specific sites, including battalion headquarters, sector commands, ammunition depots, and logistic bases, were hit with precision to degrade militant capabilities.
Military sources confirmed the destruction of 83 Afghan border posts, with additional posts captured or severely damaged in the process. The operation involved coordinated efforts to neutralize threats without targeting civilian areas, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to minimizing collateral damage.
The casualties on the Pakistani side highlight the intensity of the clashes. Among those who embraced martyrdom were senior officers, including Lieutenant Colonel Junaid Arif and Major Tayyab Rahat, alongside nine other valiant soldiers who fought gallantly in defense of the homeland.
The missing soldier remains a focus of ongoing search and recovery efforts, with forces maintaining vigilance along active fronts. The injured personnel are receiving medical attention, and their condition is being monitored closely by military hospitals.
This escalation follows a pattern of cross-border tensions, where Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of harboring and supporting terrorist groups responsible for attacks inside Pakistani territory.
DG ISPR stressed that the Taliban regime must make a clear choice between aligning with militant organizations or pursuing peaceful relations with Pakistan.
Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, launched under directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reflects a broader strategy to counter exported terrorism and secure national borders. Officials noted that the response was immediate, effective, and proportionate to the aggression faced.
Analysts observe that such operations aim not only at tactical gains but also at sending a strong message regarding Pakistan’s resolve against threats originating from Afghan soil. The military’s actions have reportedly disrupted militant command structures and supply lines significantly.Border security remains a critical priority amid these developments.
Pakistan has long advocated for better management of the Durand Line to prevent infiltration and militant activities. Recent incidents underscore the urgency of addressing safe havens across the border.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with calls for de-escalation to avoid wider regional instability. Pakistan maintains that its operations are defensive in nature and aimed solely at protecting its sovereignty.
As the operation progresses, security forces remain on high alert to counter any further provocations. The sacrifices of the fallen soldiers have been widely acknowledged, with tributes pouring in for their courage and dedication.
Pakistan’s leadership has reiterated full support for the armed forces in their efforts to eliminate terrorism. The nation stands united in honoring the martyrs who laid down their lives while defending the motherland.
This latest confrontation highlights persistent challenges in Pak-Afghan relations, particularly concerning terrorism and border management. Sustained diplomatic and security measures will be essential to achieve lasting stability in the region.