Pakistan carried out intelligence-based airstrikes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, killing more than 80 militants linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also referred to by authorities as Fitna al-Khawarij. According to security sources, the operation targeted seven militant camps and hideouts located in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar, Paktika, and Khost provinces.
The strikes were launched in response to a series of recent suicide attacks in Islamabad, Bajaur, and Bannu, which claimed the lives of civilians and security personnel. Officials described the airstrikes as precise and intelligence-driven, aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure operating from across the border.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting termed the action a proportionate retaliatory response, stating that Pakistan has conclusive evidence linking these militant groups to cross-border terrorism. Authorities emphasized that the targets were selected carefully to minimize civilian harm while disrupting militant networks.
State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry said that nearly 70 militants were initially confirmed killed, while later assessments placed the death toll at over 80. He added that many of the militants were Pakistani nationals using Afghan territory to plan and launch attacks inside Pakistan. He also highlighted that Pakistan has conducted nearly 70,000 intelligence-based operations across the country in recent years.
President Asif Ali Zardari said the airstrikes reflect Pakistan’s legitimate right to defend its citizens and sovereignty. Referring to a recent United Nations Security Council report, he warned that those responsible for bloodshed inside Pakistan would not remain beyond reach.
Pakistan has repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban authorities to prevent militant groups from using Afghan soil for attacks, citing commitments made under the 2020 Doha Agreement. However, Islamabad maintains that these assurances have not been fully honoured. Officials reiterated that Pakistan will continue to take necessary actions to ensure national security and protect its people.
