ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has conducted intelligence-based selective targeting of seven terrorist camps and hideouts belonging to the Fitna al Khwarij, its affiliates, and the Islamic State-Khorasan Province along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border region.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced the operation early Sunday through an official post on the social media platform X. The strikes were described as a direct retributive response to a series of recent suicide bombings inside Pakistan.
These attacks included a suicide bombing at an Imambargah in Islamabad, separate incidents in Bajaur and Bannu districts, and another attack in Bannu during the holy month of Ramadan. The Islamabad attack targeted worshippers during Friday prayers, resulting in significant casualties and injuries.
Pakistan maintains conclusive evidence linking these terrorist acts to the Khwarij elements operating under the direction of their Afghanistan-based leadership and handlers. Responsibilities for the bombings were claimed by Afghanistan-based factions of the Pakistani Taliban, referred to as Fitna al Khwarij, and their affiliates, along with the Islamic State-Khorasan Province.
The term Fitna al Khwarij is officially used by Pakistani authorities to designate the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and associated groups, emphasizing their deviation from Islamic principles. The Islamic State-Khorasan Province represents the regional branch of the Daesh network active in the border areas.
The information ministry highlighted that Pakistan has consistently pursued peace and stability in the region. However, the safety and security of Pakistani citizens remain the highest priority.
Repeated diplomatic efforts were made to urge the Afghan Taliban regime to take verifiable steps against terrorist groups using Afghan soil for attacks against Pakistan. These requests included denying safe havens to foreign proxies and militants planning cross-border operations.
The Afghan Taliban regime has failed to implement any substantive measures, according to the statement. This inaction has allowed terrorist networks to regroup and launch attacks from across the border.
The operation was carried out with precision and accuracy, focusing on intelligence-driven targets. It aimed to disrupt the operational capabilities of these groups without broader escalation.
Reports from various sources indicate the strikes hit locations in provinces such as Paktika, Nangarhar, Khost, and Paktia. Pakistani military actions reportedly eliminated several militants involved in planning and executing attacks inside Pakistan.
The Afghan side has contested the Pakistani account, alleging civilian casualties including women and children in the targeted areas. Afghan officials described the strikes as hitting civilian structures and vowed an appropriate response at a suitable time.
Pakistan’s statement reiterated its commitment to regional peace while asserting the right to self-defense against threats originating from neighboring territory. The action underscores the ongoing security challenges along the porous Durand Line.
The surge in attacks has heightened tensions between Islamabad and Kabul. It reflects persistent concerns over the use of Afghan territory by anti-Pakistan militant outfits following the Taliban’s return to power.
Security analysts note that such cross-border operations have occurred periodically in response to spikes in militant violence. The latest strikes follow a pattern of intelligence-based actions to neutralize immediate threats.
The government emphasized that the armed forces and law enforcement agencies continue to defend national sovereignty and protect citizens from terrorism. These efforts involve sacrifices to safeguard borders and internal stability.
The operation’s timing during Ramadan adds to its significance, as the preceding attacks occurred in a period of religious observance. This has intensified public outrage and calls for decisive measures.
Pakistan has long maintained that durable peace requires effective action against terrorist sanctuaries. Without such cooperation, unilateral steps become necessary to counter evolving threats.
The strikes represent a measured yet firm response to escalating violence. They aim to deter future attacks while preserving avenues for dialogue on border security.
Observers anticipate potential diplomatic fallout, including possible Afghan retaliation or increased militant activity. Regional stability hinges on addressing root causes through sustained engagement.
Pakistan remains committed to counter-terrorism efforts in coordination with international partners. The focus stays on eliminating threats to national security while promoting peace along shared frontiers.