Pakistan needs a new military operation to root out terrorism

At least two soldiers martyred in Buner IBO​


At least one terrorist was also killed and two others were injured in the skirmish.

During the operation, an intense exchange of fire took place between the troops. The martyred personnel were identified as Lance Havildar Mudassar Mehmood (age 36 yrs; resident of district Rawalpindi) and Lance Naik Haseeb Javed (age 27 yrs; resident of district Poonch, AJ&K).

The military's media wing added that the slain militant was a high-value target, Saleem alias Rabbani, who was involved in numerous terrorist activities against the security forces as well as extortion and target killings of civilians.

The government had fixed head money of Rs5 million for Saleem, added ISPR.

A sanitisation operation was conducted to eliminate any other terrorists in the area. "Security forces of Pakistan remain determined to wipe-out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve."

Earlier, security forces killed two terrorists in an IBO in the North Waziristan district, while a police officer was martyred in an armed attack on a police check post in Buner.

The military media wing said forces conducted an IBO in North Waziristan.

The ISPR said that the leader of the dead terrorists, Ayubullah alias Mansoor, was among the dead. It added that the terrorists were involved in target killing, extortion and kidnapping of civilians in the area. Arms and ammunition were also recovered from their possession.

 
Two Pakistan Army soldiers were martyred on Saturday in an intelligence-based operation (IBO), conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Buner district, based on the reported presence of suspected terrorists, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

According to ISPR, Lance Havildar Mudassar Mehmood and Lance Naik Haseeb Javed embraced martyrdom.

During the operation, a “high-value target” identified as Saleem Rabbani was “sent to hell” after an intense gun battle, while two other terrorists were injured, the statement added.

“[The] terrorist Saleem Rabbani remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the security forces as well as extortion [and] target killings of innocent civilians,” the press release read.

The ISPR stated that weapons, along with a large quantity of explosives, were also recovered from the slain militants in today’s operation, adding that they remained “actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area”.

The alleged terrorist Saleem had a bounty of Rs5 million placed on him and was wanted by law enforcement agencies and the government, the military’s media wing said.

However, during the operation, two brave sons of the soil, Lance Havildar Mudassar Mehmood, 36, of Rawalpindi, and Lance Naik Haseeb Javed, 27, a resident of Poonch, having fought gallantly, embraced Shahadat [martyrdom], the ISPR stated.

According to additional information from the ISPR, Lance Havildar Mudassar and Lance Naik Haseeb served 16 and five years in the army, respectively.

A sanitisation operation is under way to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area, the press release said.

“Security forces of Pakistan remain determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the security forces for the successful operation and expressed regret over those martyred.

Source: Dawn News
 
DI Khan: At least four Customs officials gunned down

Police said that a passerby was also killed when nearby vehciles collided following the shooting.

According to police, unidentified assailants opened fire as the Customs officials were on routine duty on the DI Khan-Quetta road.

They said that the attackers escaped the scene after the shooting incident.

Last month, at least two soldiers of Pakistan army embraced martyrdom in DI Khan suicide attack.

According to Inter-Services-Public-Relations, two security personnel embraced martyrdom as a vehicle-borne suicide bomber exploded himself on a security forces’ convoy in Dera Ismail Khan District.

In February this year, at least five cops were martyred and two others sustained injuries as explosion occurred near police vehicle in Kulachi.

As per details, the explosion occurred in Garah Aslam area of Kulachi which targeted a police vehicle.

According to officials, the dead bodies and injured have been transferred via a helicopter to DI Khan.

 

Police vehicle escapes bomb blast in Bannu​


As per details, DPO Ziauddin Ahmed said that an explosive device planted by unknown assailants detonated before the vehicle arrived.

The device was planted near Akhoondan Sorani in Torka Bazaar, but it exploded before the police vehicle reached the spot, foiling chances of any potential damage or casualties, no damage or injuries were reported in the incident.

Following the incident, police launched a search operation in the area to apprehend the suspects involved in the attack.

Earlier today, at least two Customs officials were killed and two were injured in a firing incident near Parking Plaza in DI Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to police, unidentified assailants opened fire as the Customs officials were targeted near Parking Plaza. ARY News’ DSNG vehicle also came under the fire, luckily the staff remained safe.

The attackers escaped the scene after the shooting incident. The bodies and injured were moved to the District HQ Hospital.

On 18 April, at least four Customs officials were killed in a firing incident near Saggu road in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s DI Khan.

Last month, at least two soldiers of Pakistan army embraced martyrdom in DI Khan suicide attack.

 
Want to root out terrorism:

-start with those who stole the vote mandate

-those who kidnap and ‘interrogate’ indiscriminately

-those who hide spy cams in bedrooms for ‘evidence’
 

11 terrorists killed in operations in North Waziristan, Dera Ismail Khan: ISPR​

Eleven terrorists were killed by security forces in two separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan and North Waziristan districts, the military’s media wing said on Monday.

A press release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that the operations took place last night. It said that an intelligence-based operation was conducted in Dera Ismail Khan district on the reported presence of terrorists.

“During conduct of the operation, after an intense fire exchange, ten terrorists were successfully neutralised and sent to hell,” it said.

“In another encounter in North Waziristan district, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location as a result of which one more terrorist was sent to hell,” the ISPR said.

It added that the militants were “actively involved in numerous terrorist activities” in the area against security forces as well as civilians. The ISPR further said that arms and ammunition were also recovered from their possession.

“Locals of the area appreciated the operations by the security forces, who remain determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country,” the ISPR said.

Last week, seven terrorists were killed while trying to infiltrate the Afghan-Pakistan border in North Waziristan district.

Earlier this month, two militants were gunned down by security forces in an exchange of fire in North Waziristan district.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities in the past year, especially in KP and Balochistan after the banned militant Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

According to an annual security report issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, Pakistan witnessed 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries from 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in 2023 — marking a record six-year high.

KP and Balochistan were the primary centres of violence, accounting for over 90 per cent of all fatalities and 84pc of attacks, including incidents of terrorism and security forces operations.

Source: DAWN
 

Three terrorists eliminated in Pishin operation​

RAWALPINDI (Dunya News) – Three terrorists were sent to hell by security forces in an operation in Pishin district of Balochistan, Dunya News reported.

According to ISPR, the security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the Pishin district of Balochistan.

ISPR said that a terrorist was also injured in the operation who has been arrested. He belongs to Afghanistan. The slain terrorists were involved in terrorist activities against the security forces and targeted killing of civilians.

Weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered from the dead terrorists.

ISPR said a sanitization operation is going on to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area.

The security forces are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country, it added.

Source: Dunya News
 
PM Shehbaz visits family of martyred customs officer

: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has pledged to uproot smuggling, saying it is a curse and its eradication is as important as reviving the national economy.

He said this during his visit to Abbottabad to condole the death of customs officer Hasnain Ali Tirmzi on Thursday. Husnain Ali who was martyred along with other four customs officials during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Dera Ismail Khan a few days ago.

The prime minister visited the residence of Hasnain Ali in Jinnahabad Colony and condoled with the bereaved family and prayed for the high status of the martyr.

Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, MNA Sardar Mohammad Yousaf, PML-N provincial president Amir Muqam and general secretary Murtaza Javed Abbasi were also present on the occasion.

Talking to the bereaved family, the prime minister said that sacrifice of Hasnain Ali would go in vain. He added fulfilling educational expenses of his children was the responsibility of the government.

Terming him a hero of the nation, he said that he embraced martyrdom while performing his duty. “Allah says in the Holy Quran do not call the martyrs dead, they are alive,” he added.

The prime minister said that his government was taking all possible measures to eradicate drug trafficking and control smuggling. He said that the entire nation was united to end terrorism and illegal trafficking.

“Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and all of us will use our powers to end smuggling. Army chief Gen Asim Munir is fully supporting the government in this particular task. We are proud of Hasnain Ali,” he said.

The prime minister said that martyr’s sacrifice would not go waste. He pledged to eradicate cross-border smuggling with the support of law enforcement agencies and the army.

He announced Shuhada Package of Rs15 million and a house for Hasnain Ali and other martyrs. Foolproof security arrangements were made during the visit of prime minister to the district.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Khyber operation further strengthens Pakistan’s claim of foreign weapon usage

During an operation in Khyber, Security Forces recovered US-made weapons, further strengthening Pakistan’s claim of foreign weapon usage, which is believed to have been acquired from Afghanistan by various militant groups operating in Pakistan, ARY News reported, citing sources.

In the ongoing battle to eliminate terrorism across the region, the Pakistan Army has recently conducted various operations, leading to the recovery of US-made weapons, suspected to have been acquired from Afghanistan.

The recovery of foreign weapons is evident that terrorists have access to the cache of foreign weapons – which was left in Afghanistan by American forces – which seriously jeopardized regional security, especially Pakistan.

Due to the access to this weaponry, a notable increase in terrorism has been observed in Pakistan.

However, in a successful operation on April 24-25 in Khyber, the security forces eliminated three terrorist’s leader including Sohail alias Azmato, Haji Gul alias Zarqawi and recovered US-made M16A4, AK47, and others.

On April 22-23, security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Pishin, resulting in the elimination of three terrorists and the arrest of one injured terrorist, who was identified as an Afghan citizen.

Similarly, on April 6, 2024, security forces conducted an IBO in North Waziristan, resulting in the deaths of two terrorists due to gunfire. The operation also led to the recovery of foreign weapons, including M16, A4, and AK 47 rifles, from the deceased terrorists.

On March 20, terrorists attempted a cowardly attack on the Gwadar Port Authority Complex. However, their plan was thwarted, with BLA terrorists found using American weapons during the attack.

This prompted a retaliatory response from the security forces, who recovered AK47s, M16A4s, grenade launchers, and hand grenades among the seized non-local weapons.

During an operation in North Waziristan on January 29, a terrorist named Nek Minullah was killed, while US-made weapons, including M4 carbine and others, were recovered from him.

On January 22, seven terrorists were neutralized in Zhob, with the recovery of AK47s, M16A2s, and various other weapons. Subsequently, on January 19, two terrorists were eliminated in Miranshah, and non-local weaponry was confiscated. Continuing into December 31, three terrorists were taken down in Bajaur, leading to the seizure of US-made M4 carbines and other arms. On December 29, a cache of weapons, including AK47s, M4 carbines, and ammunition, was retrieved from terrorists killed in Mir Ali.

These weapons, reportedly utilized by the BLA, were employed in attacks on Noshki and Panjgur FC camps in February 2022, as well as on Zhob Garrison in July 2023.

The presence of US-arms in Pakistan prompts serious questions regarding their purported non-utilization within Pakistani territory.

As reported by the Euro-Asian Times, American weaponry is also being used for terrorism in Pakistan. While the report of Pentagon stated that the United States supplied a total of 427,300 military weapons to the Afghan army. However, during the American withdrawal, around 300,000 of these weapons was left behind in Afghanistan.

 
That's something we are all aware of, but unfortunately, we couldn't finish it once and for all.
 

4 terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation in Tank: ISPR​

Four terrorists were killed by security forces in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Tank district, the media’s military wing said on Monday.

A press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that the operation took place last night on the reported presence of terrorists in the area.

“Own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location as a result of which four terrorists were sent to hell,” the ISPR said. “These terrorists remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area,” it added.

It said that weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorists.

“Locals of the area appreciated the operation by the security forces, who remain determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country,” the statement said.

On Sunday, two alleged militants were killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in Dera Ismail Khan district. An intense gun battle took place between security forces and militants which left two militants — Nawaz alias Gandapuri and Mohsin Nawaz — dead, the ISPR said.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities in the past year, especially in KP and Balochistan after the banned militant Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

According to an annual security report issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, Pakistan witnessed 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries from 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in 2023 — marking a record six-year high.

KP and Balochistan were the primary centres of violence, accounting for over 90 per cent of all fatalities and 84pc of attacks, including incidents of terrorism and security forces operations.

Source: DAWN
 

Terror attack on police check post repulsed in Dera Ghazi Khan​


A terror attack on the Jhangi check post in Dera Ghazi Khan was thwarted by the police when at least 15 to 20 terrorists struck it during the late hours at night.

According to Regional Police Officer Sajjad Hassan Khan, at least seven police personnel were injured in the terror incident.

The RPO told Geo News that the Jhangi check post is located on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa-Punjab border in the Taunsa area.

He added that the attackers wanted to capture the check post, but they fled in the darkness of the night after the attack was repulsed by policemen.

According to Punjab Police, 15 to 20 terrorists were involved in the attack.

This was a second attack on the check post in the span of two months, said Punjab Police.

In a statement issued on X, formerly Twitter, the Punjab Police wrote: "The terrorists of the banned organisation failed to attack the Jhangi (Hazrat Umar Farooq) police check post again after two months."

Taking advantage of the darkness of the night, 15 to 20 terrorists attacked with modern weapons including rocket launchers, hand grenades, laser light guns which Sub-Inspector Mohiuddin — the check post in-charge — and his personnel repulsed, the post read.

DG Khan RPO and district police officers reached the spot with more reinforcements as soon as they received the information about the attack.

"In the attack, seven personnel got injured while fighting bravely and were shifted to the hospital for treatment."

The post further read that only two days ago, the RPO and DPO had visited the outpost to inform the deployed personnel about the threat of attack and rehearsed the defense measures.

Inspector General Punjab Dr Usman Anwar praised the personnel, posted at the Jhangi check post, for successfully defending the post.

"Punjab Police is on alert, will never let terrorists succeed in their nefarious intentions," the post stated, citing IG Punjab.

Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz condemned the terror attack on the check post, paying tribute to the brave police team for fighting the terrorists.

The chief minister directed relevant authorities to provide the best treatment facilities to the injured officials.

"Ending terrorism is our commitment," she said, sharing her resolve towards peace in the province.

 
Seven policemen were injured in an overnight attack by terrorists on the Jhangi checkpost in Punjab’s Taunsa district, police said on Wednesday.

According to the Punjab Police spokesperson Syed Mubashir, it was the second attack on the checkpost since January when a police official and a civilian had lost their lives while another police official was injured in a drive-by attack.

The “already alert policemen” stationed at the checkpost engaged in a three-hour gun battle against the “15-20 terrorists who took advantage of the dark to launch a fierce attack from various directions”, Mubashir said of the latest attack.

“The terrorists wanted to take over the checkpost and take the officials hostage,” he stated, adding that the attackers used modern weapons, including rocket launchers, hand grenades, and guns with laser light.

The spokesperson added that the terrorists were “forced to flee after strong resistance” put up by the policemen as they ran out of ammunition.

Elite Force constable Shahid Mansoor, who was seriously injured, was shifted to Nishtar Hospital in Multan for treatment, the spokesperson stated.

Additional Sub-Inspector Imran, constables Muhammad Amir, Ashiq Zain, Rehmatullah and Sanaullah, and Elite Force constable Tariq were among the injured, he added.

Mubashir highlighted that the Dera Ghazi Khan regional police officer (RPO) and the district police officer (DPO) had visited the checkpost two days ago to warn the personnel about the threat of an attack. The police officers had also carried out a defence rehearsal.

Meanwhile, Punjab Inspector General (IG) Dr Usman Anwar said that the provincial police were “alert” and vowed to “never let the terrorists succeed in their nefarious aims”.

He said the DPO and the RPO reached the scene with reinforcements as soon as they received reports of the incident.

Noting that seven personnel had sustained injuries while “fighting bravely”, IG Anwar said that the district police and the elite forces responded with full force.

IG Anwar further said that operations in the area were under way to find the attackers, and also ordered that the injured policemen receive “the best medical care” available.

Separately, the RPO said that additional personnel, equipment and weapons had already been provided at the checkpost. He also commended the efforts of sub-inspector Mohiuddin, the in-charge of the checkpost, and his contingent for defending the post.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz strongly condemned the attack and lauded the police team for fighting the terrorists.

In a statement posted on X, she directed that the injured be provided with the best treatment facilities.

“Ending terrorism is our commitment,” the CM said.

Source: Dawn News
 
The lives of our armed forces are under threat each and every day.
Anyone who enlists his services for armed forces knows it. just like healthcare workers are at increased risk of contracting infections or religious preachers for coming under antireligious campaigns and attacks etc.
 
KP witnessed 179 terror attacks in 2024: CTD report

According to the report, this year 179 terrorist incidents occurred in the province, resulting in the deaths of 91 terrorists.

The report highlights that January witnessed 60 incidents, February 38, March 33, and April 48. The highest number of terrorist deaths occurred in February, with 31 terrorists killed.

Additionally, 19 terrorists were killed in Dera Ismail Khan and 14 in North Waziristan.
The report also reveals that 16 of the killed terrorists were most wanted, including Mohsin Qadir, Azmatullah, and Fareedullah.

The CTD report further discloses that 2 suicide jackets, 36 hand grenades, and 247 kilograms of explosives were recovered.

Moreover, the report revealed that 10 attacks were reported on police teams this year, highlighting the challenging security situation in the province.

Last year, the Anti-Terrorism Department (CTD) released a report on the terror incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2023 where as many as 563 terror incidents occurred in 2023 and out of 563 incidents, police were targeted 243 times.

According to the report, the highest 132 incidents of terrorism were reported in Dera Ismail Khan, 103 incidents in Khyber and 89 terror incidents were reported in Peshawar،

The report further revealed that 86 times terrorists attacked North Waziristan and 50 times South Waziristan۔ The report further said that as many as 837 terrorists were taken into custody.

 
And I am sure that even after that, authorities will not approve any new anti-terrorism operation because the budget has been eaten up by the looters
 
Six terrorists gunned down in North Waziristan IBO: ISPR

The Security Forces on Saturday gunned down six terrorists during an Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) in North Waziristan, ARY News reported, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday.

The military’s media wing in a statement stated that the security forces conducted an IBO on the reported presence of terrorists in the North Waziristan area.

“The security forces personnel gunned down six terrorists after an intense exchange of fire, while the hideouts of terrorists were also destroyed during the operation,” the ISPR said.

The deceased terrorists were involved in the targeted killing of several citizens of the surrounding area of North Waziristan.

Security forces remain determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country.

Last week, four terrorists were gunned down in an IBO in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) Khyber district.

According to the military’s media wing, the security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Khyber district on the reported presence of terrorists.

During an intense exchange of fire, the security forces killed four terrorists, including Qari Wajid aka Qari Biryal, and Raziq. Meanwhile, the troops also destroyed the hideouts of the terrorists.

These terrorists remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from them, the ISPR said.

“Locals of the area appreciated the operation by the Security Forces, who remain determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country,” it added.

The operation came amid a surge in terrorist activities across the country, especially in KP and Balochistan, since the outlawed militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

 
Three policemen were killed and five were wounded on Wednesday when a sticky bomb was detonated next to a security convoy tasked with clearing illegal poppy crops in northeastern Afghanistan, the interior ministry said.

The improvised explosive device (IED) was attached to a motorcycle which targeted a convoy of police vehicles in Faizabad, the capital of mountainous Badakhshan province, around 11am local time.

“The bomb exploded while the convoy of police forces was on its way to destroy poppy cultivation,” Taliban Interior Ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qani posted on X.

The explosion comes days after Taliban security officials and residents clashed over the violent clearance of poppy crops in two Badakhshan districts, leaving two dead and sparking rare protests.

Afghanistan was the largest producer of opium before poppy cultivation was banned in a decree by the Taliban supreme leader in April 2022.

Farmers have been encouraged to plant different crops, but none compete with the financial draw of the poppy, leading some to continue discreetly cultivating small plots.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

An AFP journalist saw Taliban authorities searching homes and detaining dozens of people near the scene.

Images posted on social media, but not immediately verified by AFP, showed a charred motorcycle and a police truck riddled with holes.

Eyewitness Aminullah, who did not want to give his full name, said he heard a huge explosion and saw that a convoy of Taliban authorities had been hit. “Immediately the security forces cleared the area of people,” he told AFP.

The number of bombings and suicide attacks in Afghanistan has fallen since the Taliban ended their insurgency after ousting the US-backed government and returning to power in August 2021.

However, multiple armed groups, including the militant Islamic State, remain a threat, with regular reports of explosions that go unconfirmed by authorities.

Source: Dawn News
 
Khawaja Asif asks for enhanced security on National Assembly premises

Minister for Defense Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Friday stressed to ensure elaborate security measures within the premises of National Assembly (NA) building and its lobbies.

Speaking on the National Assembly floor, the minister said that a large number of unidentified individuals are often present at the building’s entrance.

Asif noted that people congregate outside the hall, in front of the elevators, and in the corridors, posing significant security risks.

The minister said there was a system for issuing passes to the MNAs in the past, which should be implemented strictly to maintain security in the Parliament.

He said that enhanced security measures are crucial to avoid any untoward incident while citing the March 26 Bisham suicide attack, where the explosive-laden car that targeted the bus of Chinese workers reached Bisham from Balochistan’s Chaman area 10 days before the terrorist attack took place.

He also expressed concern about the behavior of individuals seated in the gallery, who often engage in slogan chanting, thereby undermining the sanctity of the House.

The minister stressed that such activities should cease and that the National Assembly is not a place for protests or demonstrations.

NA Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said that verbal instructions had been issued previously, followed by written directives on May 14.

Ayaz Sadiq said that guests visiting from the Senate also come to the National Assembly, and random checks are being conducted.

The Speaker said necessary measures have been taken to ensure the security of the Parliament, adding that he has also held talks with Minister for Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and the Inspector General Islamabad police in this regard.

 
Five terrorists killed, captain, soldier martyred in Peshawar gun fight: ISPR

An army captain and a soldier were martyred during an exchange of fire with terrorists during an operation in Peshawar’s Hassan Khel area, ARY News reported, quoting Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations said that Captain Hussain Jahangir, 25, a resident of the Rahim Yar Khan district and Havaldar Shafiq Ullah, 36, a resident of the Karak district, were martyred during the operation.

At least five terrorists were killed while three terrorists got injured, it said and added that sanitisation operation was carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area.

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve.”

The operation comes amid a surge in terrorist activities across the country, especially in KP and Balochistan, since the outlawed militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

Earlier on April 9, security forces gunned down two terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) South Waziristan.

The security personnel gunned down two terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area, the ISPR said. Meanwhile, weapons along with a large quantity of explosives were also recovered from killed terrorists.

 

17 terrorists killed, 5 soldiers martyred in separate KP operations: ISPR​

Seventeen terrorists were killed and another two were injured on Monday in two separate operations conducted by security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military’s media affairs wing said.

In a press release, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that in an operation conducted in Tank District on Monday, “own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location, as a result of which ten terrorists were sent to hell”.

Another engagement occurred in the “general area [of] Bagh, Khyber District, wherein the security forces sent seven terrorists to hell while two terrorists were injured”, the ISPR said.

However, “during the intense exchange of fire, five brave soldiers” — Naik Muhammad Ashfaq Butt, 32, resident of district Kahuta; Lance Naik Syed Danish Afkar, 30, resident of district Poonch; Sepoy Taimoor Malik, 32, resident of district Layyah; Sepoy Nadir Sageer, 22, resident of district Bagh; and Sepoy Muhammad Yasin, 23, resident of district Khushab — “having fought gallantly, embraced martyrdom”.

“A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and explosives was also recovered from the killed terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the security forces as well as the innocent civilians,” the statement said.

It further said sanitisation operations were being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area, asserting that security forces were “determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve”.

Separately, referring to Sunday’s intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Peshawar’s Hassan Khel area, which killed five terrorists and injured another three, the ISPR said “six terrorists were successfully neutralised by the security forces and multiple hideouts were busted” during that action.

Captain Hussain Jehangir and Havildar Shafiqullah, who had been martyred during the same IBO, were laid to rest with full military honours in their native areas, Radio Pakistan reported.

A large number of senior serving military officers, families of martyrs and local people participated in the funeral prayers of the martyrs.

A total of 23 terrorists were killed in three separate operations in KP on May 26-27, the ISPR highlighted.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities, especially in KP and Balochistan after the banned militant Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

According to a security report issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies in March, Pakistan witnessed 432 violence-linked fatalities and 370 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws, resulting from as many as 245 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations during the first quarter of 2024.

KP and Balochistan, both bordering Afghanistan, accounted for over 92 per cent of all fatalities and 86pc of attacks, including incidents of terrorism and security forces operations, during this period. Individually, the former suffered 51pc and the latter 41pc of all fatalities in the first quarter of 2024, the report said.

Source: DAWN
 
Afghanistan agrees to review Pakistan's findings on Besham attack probe

Pakistan on Thursday formally sought assistance from the Taliban government to apprehend the perpetrators of the March 26 terrorist attacks that killed five Chinese engineers.

On the special directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Secretary of Interior, Muhammad Khurram Agha, visited Kabul and held a detailed meeting with the Interim Afghan Deputy Minister for the Interior, Muhammad Nabi Omari, said an official handout issued here by the Foreign Office.

In the meeting, which focused on the terror attack of March 26 at Besham, the interior secretary shared the findings of the government of Pakistan into the Besham attack and sought Afghanistan’s assistance in apprehending the perpetrators.

“The Afghan side reiterated its commitment to prevent the use of their soil for any terrorist activity against other countries, including Pakistan,” said the Foreign Office.

It said that the Afghan side also agreed to examine the findings of the investigation and expressed the resolve to work with the Pakistani side to take the investigation to its logical conclusion.

The two sides agreed to remain engaged to confront the threat posed by terrorism to regional countries and to address the concerns raised by Pakistan.

On Sunday, Pakistan asked the Afghan Taliban government to arrest the entire leadership of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and put them on trial after sharing fresh evidence linking Afghanistan with the March 26 terrorist attack on Chinese engineers in Besham.


Tribune
 
Two terrorists killed in Peshawar IBO: ISPR

Security forces killed two terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) conducted in the area of Hassan Khel, Peshawar district, said Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement Friday.

“On the night of 30/31 May 2024, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in area of Hassan Khel, Peshawar District on the reported presence of terrorists,” the military’s media wing said.

The ISPR said: “During conduct of the operation, Pakistan army troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location, as result of which terrorist ringleader Ayaz alias Muhammad and Terrorist Ahmedey alias Koochi were sent to hell, while two other terrorists were injured.”

The killed terrorists remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against security forces and killing of innocent civilians. Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from killed terrorists, it said, adding that locals of the area appreciated the operation.

“Sanitization of the area is being conducted to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area as the Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country,” the statement added.

 
Cop among two injured in DI Khan blast

As per details, the incident occurred when a roadside exploded as the DSP and other police personnel were on the way for polio duty.

The police officials said the blast injured the driver of elite forces and a constable whereas a bomb disposal squad reached the spot of the incident and examined the situation.

Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Saturday condemned attack on Police mobile in Dera Ismail Khan

In his message Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi condemned the incident and expressed his best wishes for the recovery of the injured policemen.

The Governor expressed concern and regret over the successive attacks on police personnel in Dera Ismail Khan Khan and other districts.

Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sardar Ali Amin Khan Gandapur also condemned the attack on Police mobile, injuring two policemen.

The Chief Minister expressed his best wishes for the recovery of the two policemen injured in the firing.

The CM directed the district administration to ensure timely provision of medical aid to the injured officials.

Police have made eternal sacrifices for the protection of people’s lives and property, Sardar Ali Amin Gandapur said in his separate message.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police has fought terrorism with great courage and bravery, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur said. The government and people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are with the forces in this war, Ali Amin Gandapur added.

Such cowardly incidents will not demoralize the Policemen, Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur said. The war against terrorism will continue until the establishment of complete peace, Ali Amin Gandapur said.

All the resources required by the police to effectively deal with terrorism will be provided on a priority basis, said the Chief Minister.

 

Seven soldiers martyred in IED Blast in Lakki Marwat: ISPR​


An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated on a vehicle of the Security Forces in Lakki Marwat District on Sunday, resulting in the martyrdom of seven soldiers, the military’s media wing said in a statement.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the fallen include Captain Muhammad Faraz Ilyas, 26, from Kasur District; Subedar Major Muhammad Nazir, 50, from Skardu District; Lance Naik Muhammad Anwar, 34, from Ghanchi District; Lance Naik Hussain Ali, 36, from Ghizer District; Sepoy Asad Ullah, 33, from Multan District; Sepoy Manzoor Hussain, 27, from Gilgit District; and Sepoy Rashid Mehmood, 31, from Rawalpindi District.

"Sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists present in the area, and perpetrators of this heinous act will be brought to justice," the statement said.

The Security Forces of Pakistan remain resolute in their determination to eliminate the menace of terrorism. "Such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve," the statement added.

 
IK will now criticize the fauj when they hit back. "We're killing our own people" this idiot will cry! He wants to break bread with the Taliban!
 

Seven soldiers martyred in IED Blast in Lakki Marwat: ISPR​


An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated on a vehicle of the Security Forces in Lakki Marwat District on Sunday, resulting in the martyrdom of seven soldiers, the military’s media wing said in a statement.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the fallen include Captain Muhammad Faraz Ilyas, 26, from Kasur District; Subedar Major Muhammad Nazir, 50, from Skardu District; Lance Naik Muhammad Anwar, 34, from Ghanchi District; Lance Naik Hussain Ali, 36, from Ghizer District; Sepoy Asad Ullah, 33, from Multan District; Sepoy Manzoor Hussain, 27, from Gilgit District; and Sepoy Rashid Mehmood, 31, from Rawalpindi District.

"Sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists present in the area, and perpetrators of this heinous act will be brought to justice," the statement said.

The Security Forces of Pakistan remain resolute in their determination to eliminate the menace of terrorism. "Such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve," the statement added.

PM Shehbaz vows to eradicate Pakistan's enemies​

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday vowed to eradicate Pakistan's enemies during the funeral of Captain Muhammad Faraz Ilyas, who was martyred in a terrorist attack in the Lakki Marwat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) province the previous day.

On Sunday, the military's media wing, in a statement, said that an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated on a vehicle of the security forces in Lakki Marwat, resulting in the martyrdom of seven soldiers.

"We will bring these terrorists to justice. Our war against terrorism will continue until it is fully eradicated from our land," the premier declared while speaking at the funeral today in Lahore.

PM Shehbaz also assured the nation of their commitment, stating, "We will completely eliminate the enemies of Pakistan. The blood of shaheed Captain Faraz Ilyas will not be in vain; his sacrifice will yield results."

The funeral follows an IED explosion in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Lakki Marwat district, which killed seven soldiers, including the 26-year-old Captain Faraz Ilyas.

A day earlier, it was also reported that at least nine people, including seven army personnel, were injured in two separate terrorist attacks in Kurram and Dera Ismail Khan (DI Khan) districts of K-P.

 

Section 144 imposed across Punjab amid terror alert​


The provincial government enforced Section 144 across Punjab on Friday for a week due to terrorism concerns.

The home department, in a statement, said that the ban had been imposed on public gatherings, rallies, sit-ins, and protests throughout the province until June 27.

The decision aims to uphold law and order, safeguard lives, and protect property, citing potential risks of terrorism targeting large public gatherings.

The statement said that authorities are committed to ensuring strict compliance with these regulations and have initiated efforts to inform the public accordingly.

The province witnessed similar restrictions in January when in response to security threats and concerns regarding the law and order situation during February 8 election campaigns, the Punjab government imposed Section 144 across Punjab.

The government's directive included a ban on the display and carrying of illegal weapons, even those with licenses, with an exception for law enforcement agencies.

Additionally, the practice of aerial firing had been strictly prohibited. A notification issued by the Punjab Home Secretary highlighted potential threats to law and order, public peace, and security during the election period.

Given the extensive political gatherings, rallies, and meetings expected across the province, concerns were raised about these events becoming vulnerable targets for potential acts of terrorism and mischief by miscreants.

 

Five soldiers martyred in IED blast in Kurram: ISPR​

An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated on a vehicle of the Security Forces in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on Friday, resulting in the martyrdom of five soldiers, the military’s media wing said in a statement.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attack on the armed forces occurred in general area Sadda of Kurram District.

The fallen include Havildar Aqeel Ahmed (33, District Okara), Lance Naik Muhammad Tafeer (30, District Poonch), Sepoy Anosh Rufun (24, District Attock), Sepoy Muhammad Azam Khan (26, District Haripur), and Sepoy Haroon William (29, Islamabad Capital Territory).

"Sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists present in the area, and perpetrators of this heinous act will be brought to justice," the ISPR statement said.

The Security Forces of Pakistan remain resolute in their determination to eliminate the menace of terrorism. "Such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve," the ISPR statement added.

Earlier in the month an IED was detonated on a vehicle of the Security Forces in Lakki Marwat District resulting in the martyrdom of seven soldiers.

 

Pakistan launches ‘Operation Azm-e-Istehkam’ to eradicate terrorism​


The Apex Committee of National Action Plan, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has approved “Operation Azm-e-Istehkam” to eliminate terrorism and extremism across the country.

The meeting, held in Islamabad on Saturday, included key federal cabinet members such as the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Interior Minister, Finance Minister, Law Minister, and Information Minister.

Chief ministers from all provinces and Gilgit-Baltistan, services chiefs, provincial chief secretaries, and other senior civilian, military, and law enforcement officials also attended.

The forum conducted a comprehensive review of the ongoing anti-terrorism campaign and internal security situation. It examined the progress of the National Action Plan's multi-domain principles and highlighted areas where implementation was lacking. Emphasis was placed on addressing these shortcomings as a priority.

The meeting stressed the need for a new, dynamic counter-terrorism strategy based on national consensus and broad systemic coordination. Prime Minister Shehbaz approved the reactivation of the national anti-terrorism campaign through the launch of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, symbolising national resolve with consensus from all stakeholders, including the provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

What is Operation Azm-e-Istehkam?

Operation Azm-e-Istehkam aims to eradicate extremism and terrorism decisively and comprehensively. It will coordinate and align efforts across multiple fronts to address the threats, while intensifying efforts to curb terrorist activities through regional cooperation within the political and diplomatic spheres.

The operation will bolster the armed forces' renewed and vigorous efforts with full support from all law enforcement agencies. Effective legislation will be enacted to close legal loopholes that hinder the prosecution of terrorism-related cases, ensuring exemplary punishments for offenders.

This campaign will be complemented by socio-economic measures aimed at addressing the genuine concerns of the populace and creating an environment that discourages extremist tendencies.

The forum reiterated that the fight against extremism and terrorism is Pakistan's own battle, crucial for the nation's survival and welfare. It was decided that no one would be allowed to challenge the state's authority without repercussions.

The forum also reviewed measures to ensure foolproof security for Chinese nationals in Pakistan. Following the prime minister's approval, new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were issued to enhance the security framework for Chinese citizens in the country.

 
Can someone list the number of operations launched by Pak Army against terrorists?
I literally cant believe how controlled the media coverage of these operations is. Never a report of any civilian casualty
 
Can someone list the number of operations launched by Pak Army against terrorists?
I literally cant believe how controlled the media coverage of these operations is. Never a report of any civilian casualty

They've been at it since 2001

Biggest liars this military

Where's the money gone they were milking from usa and after 25 yrs they are still in the same position.
 

‘Azm-e-Istehkam’: Pakistan plans new diplomatic push against TTP sanctuaries in Afghanistan​


Pakistan will mount fresh diplomatic efforts to persuade the interim Afghan Taliban government to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries as part of the new plan approved by the country's civil and military leadership, people familiar with development revealed here on Sunday.

The Central Apex Committee of the National Action Plan (NAP) on Saturday gave a go ahead to launch a new military campaign named Operation Azm-e-Istehkam to eradicate terrorism and extremism.

Sources said the new campaign has two prongs: one addresses the internal security situation, while the other focuses on external threats emanating from Afghanistan.

While kinetic operation and intelligence based campaign against terrorist outfits will be intensified under the renewed anti-terror drive, a fresh diplomatic effort will be launched to neutralise the threat coming from the neighbouring country.

Since the return of Taliban in Kabul in August 2021, the number of terrorist attacks has only gone up, much to the dismay of Islamabad.

The first five months of this year saw 83 per cent increase in terrorist attacks, forcing authorities to launch a fresh campaign against militant groups.

Sources said under the new plan, Pakistan will once again approach the Kabul regime, giving it a chance to come good on its promises in eradicating terrorist sanctuaries.

Sources added that Pakistan will also seek China's help in persuading the Afghan Taliban to review their strategy regarding the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

China is apparently enjoying more leverage over the Taliban than Pakistan, which has historic ties with the group. However, since returning to power, relations between Pakistan and the Taliban government only got from bad to worse.

Sources said China has stakes in the security of Pakistan as increased terrorist attacks have impeded its investment.

A key Chinese minister on a recent visit to Pakistan publically warned that attacks on Chinese nationals in Pakistan shook the confidence of Chinese investors.

The minister linked the future investment of China with improvement in the security and business environment in Pakistan.

A day after his frank statement, the country’s civil and military leadership approved the launch of new military campaign against terrorist groups.

The increased Chinese concerns over the security situation were of the main factors which compelled Pakistan to initiate fresh anti-terror drive.

Meanwhile, Pakistan believes that the main source of surge in terrorist attacks stems from the TTP hideouts across the border.

On Friday, Pakistan told the UN Security Council that the elimination of terrorism within and from Afghanistan remains the highest priority for the international community, Afghanistan's neighbours, and Afghanistan itself.

Despite progress made by the Afghan Interim Government (AIG) in combating Daesh (ISKP), several other terrorist groups, including Al-Qaeda, TTP, ETIM, and IMU, continue to operate in Afghanistan, according to Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan's permanent representative to the UN

Pakistan urged the AIG to take effective and sustained action against these groups in compliance with several Security Council resolutions.

During the UN Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, Ambassador Akram highlighted the dangers of allowing impunity for terrorist groups in Afghanistan. He emphasised that goals such as investment, social and economic development, and infrastructure projects cannot be achieved as long as these groups operate freely within and from Afghanistan.

Ambassador Akram described the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan as the most direct and serious threat to Pakistan. He detailed the TTP's terrorist activities, which have resulted in hundreds of civilian and military casualties.

He said the TTP has intensified its attacks, after acquiring sophisticated weapons. Despite Pakistan's repeated calls for the AIG to take decisive action against the TTP, including halting cross-border attacks, disarming fighters, and handing over terrorists, no significant action has been taken, he said.

He said that the TTP safe havens near Pakistan's borders persist, and recent cross-border attacks have included one that killed several Chinese engineers working on the Dasu hydropower project.

Ambassador Akram urged the UN Security Council to call on the AIG to sever its links with the TTP and its associates, prevent cross-border attacks against Pakistan, disarm TTP terrorists, and capture and hand over TTP leaders to Pakistan.

He said that Pakistan continues to advocate for sustained engagement with the Afghan interim authorities to help normalise the situation in Afghanistan. He said that the AIG's decision to participate in the Doha meeting at the end of this month represents a critical opportunity for constructive dialogue on all key issues related to Afghanistan.

Ambassador Akram stressed the importance of having clear objectives for both the international community and the AIG. He said that as highlighted by the UN Special Coordinator on Afghanistan, addressing the major issues for normalisation requires a realistic roadmap, outlining reciprocal steps by the AIG and the international community towards Afghanistan's normalisation and integration into the global community.

He reminded the international community of its obligation to assist the 23 million Afghans in urgent need of humanitarian aid. Unfortunately, the Afghanistan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan has only received 16.2% of the necessary $3.06 billion for the targeted 17.3 million Afghans.

Full funding from all possible sources is essential to meet these critical needs, he maintained.

Ambassador Munir Akram also termed the revival of the Afghan economy and finding pathways for sustained development as being equally important, a task which, he said, requires the restoration of the Afghan banking system, commercial activities, and private sector investment. Additionally, creating conditions for the release of Afghanistan’s frozen assets and their transfer to its Central Bank is crucial, he stated.

Ambassador Akram said that planned infrastructure and regional connectivity projects must be initiated and expressed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding trade and economic relations with Afghanistan. He said that in March, Pakistan and the AIG signed a 9-point agreement on trade and transit issues to promote economic relations.

The Pakistan UN Ambassador asked the AIG to take steps to meet its obligations in line with international law and established norms. He said that global concern remains over the restrictions imposed on women and girls in Afghanistan, which do not align with international law or Islamic tenets.

Concluding the statement, Ambassador Akram said that Pakistan enjoys close bonds of ethnicity, history, faith, language, and culture with Afghanistan. Promoting peace, stability, and development in Afghanistan is a national compulsion for Pakistan.

“We will continue to work at all levels—bilateral, regional, international, and with the UN—to achieve these objectives,” he declared.

 
They've been at it since 2001

Biggest liars this military

Where's the money gone they were milking from usa and after 25 yrs they are still in the same position.
The blind bhakti of the establishment is the sin of Pakistani people. Reverence to military is literally embedded to pledges and laws. Even when Imran is trying to rise against them he has to play with such word games to still say " East or West, Pak Army is the best" just some bad apples. :p
 
The blind bhakti of the establishment is the sin of Pakistani people. Reverence to military is literally embedded to pledges and laws. Even when Imran is trying to rise against them he has to play with such word games to still say " East or West, Pak Army is the best" just some bad apples. :p


Some awful videos and pictures of troops being killed mutilated, beheaded missing limbs.

In lower dir apparently namak haram crossed over and took over huge areas
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Fazl warns Azm-e-Istehkam operation would further 'weaken' Pakistan​

After Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Awami National Party (ANP) opposition against Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has also condemned the operation, declaring it a "destabilising initiative" that will further weaken Pakistan.

During a press conference, JUI-F chief after meeting with Dr Malik Baloch, Asghar Achakzai, Khushal Khan Kakar, and Abdul Khaliq Hazara said, "This is not Operation Azm-e-Istehkam but rather operation "Adm-e-Istehkam", which, he say will make Pakistan even more vulnerable.

"The establishment must end its dominance in all aspects," the JUI-F chief added.

Fazl stressed the equality of all citizens under the same national identity, asserting, "We are all equal citizens of this country. One class should not consider itself rulers while the rest remain subjects. Our history is about fighting against slavery, and we will not be treated like animals."

Criticising the state's declining control, Fazl highlighted the ineffectiveness of police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and questioned the military's involvement in civilian governance.

"What is the Apex Committee? At the tehsil level, a major; at the district level, a colonel; at the provincial level, a corps commander; and at the federal level, the army chief. When a uniformed officer is present, who will make the decisions?" he asked.

On June 22, the Apex Committee of National Action Plan, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, approved “Operation Azm-e-Istehkam” to eliminate terrorism and extremism across the country.

The meeting, held in Islamabad, included key federal cabinet members such as the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Interior Minister, Finance Minister, Law Minister, and Information Minister.

Chief ministers from all provinces and Gilgit-Baltistan, services chiefs, provincial chief secretaries, and other senior civilian, military, and law enforcement officials also attended.

The meeting stressed the need for a new, dynamic counter-terrorism strategy based on national consensus and broad systemic coordination. Prime Minister Shehbaz approved the reactivation of the national anti-terrorism campaign through the launch of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, symbolising national resolve with consensus from all stakeholders, including the provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The forum also reviewed measures to ensure foolproof security for Chinese nationals in Pakistan. Following the prime minister's approval, new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were issued to enhance the security framework for Chinese citizens in the country.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Pakistan is under pressure from China to destroy terrorists in their country. Pakistan has to reluctantly do this operation despite not liking it.
 
Pakistan is under pressure from China to destroy terrorists in their country. Pakistan has to reluctantly do this operation despite not liking it.
Prime example of hatred and bias turns people blind, leaving them devoid of any logic, or reason.

Why would Pakistan do this reluctantly when they are harming pakistan's economic efforts with China? I don't think any country in the world likes terrorism in their country.
 

PM Office rejects comparison of 'Azm-e-Istehkam' with past military operations​

In a clarification regarding the newly launched operation "Azm-e-Istehkam", the Prime Minister's Office underscored on Monday its distinct objectives, urging the public and media to avoid drawing comparisons with previous military operations

The statement stated that the operation named "Azm-e-Istehkam" marks a strategic shift in Pakistan's approach towards achieving sustainable peace and security.

It emphasises a multifaceted strategy that includes not only military operations but also political, diplomatic, legal, and informational efforts aimed at eradicating terrorism and extremism in the country.

"The purpose of 'Azm-e-Istehkam' is to decisively eradicate the remnants of terrorists and their facilitation networks, ensuring a safe environment conducive to economic development," stated a spokesperson from the Prime Minister's Office.

The Prime Minister's Office further clarified that while previous operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Rah-e-Nijat were instrumental in eliminating terrorist strongholds, "Azm-e-Istehkam" represents a new phase focusing on sustained stability without necessitating large-scale military operations that could disrupt civilian life.

"This initiative is not merely a continuation of past operations but a holistic approach towards long-term security and prosperity," stressed the spokesperson.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government in statement also called for a unified national effort and support for "Azm-e-Istehkam".

Source: SAMAA
 
Prime example of hatred and bias turns people blind, leaving them devoid of any logic, or reason.

Why would Pakistan do this reluctantly when they are harming pakistan's economic efforts with China? I don't think any country in the world likes terrorism in their country.
That is because you are going to kill your own people in the process.

Any military operation in civilian areas will lead to hundreds and thousands of civilian deaths.

Everyone knows TTP hides among common civilians. How are you going to fight them without hurting innocents? It will be like Israel fighting Hamas. Innocents are bound to die.
 
First, launch them and when things go out of control, launch an operation like this to make people think that "O wow thank you GOV. for saving us"
 
Ongoing IBOs to be intensified under ‘Vision Azm-i-Istehkam’ rather than new military op: PM Shehbaz

Following full-throated criticism from opposition parties, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday clarified that the planned counterterrorism campaign ‘Vision Azm-i-Istehkam’ would entail intensifying ongoing intelligence-based operations (IBOs) rather than a “new and organised” military offensive.

The clarification comes after the PM’s Office (PMO) last night stated that the campaign, earlier announced as ‘Operation Azm-i-Istehkam’, would not be a kinetic large-scale military operation, nor would it entail the mass displacement of the local population.

“The prime minister took the cabinet members into confidence regarding the misunderstandings and speculations regarding ‘Vision Azm-i-Istehkam’,” PTV News quoted the PMO as saying during a meeting of the federal cabinet.

The statement quoted PM Shehbaz: “Azm-i-Istehkam is an overall national vision of a multifaceted, cooperation of various security agencies and the entire state system.

“For this purpose, already ongoing IBOs will be intensified rather than [launching] a new and organised armed operation,” he added.

“A large-scaled armed operation that would require displacement — the initiation of such an operation under Vision Azm-i-Istehkam is merely a misunderstanding,” the premier was quoted as saying.

The aim of the campaign was to “decisively root out the remnants of terrorists, crime and terrorism bases, and violent extremism from the country”, the prime minister emphasised.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif assured opposition parties that their reservations regarding the newly announced counterterrorism campaign would be addressed.

On Saturday, the government had announced plans for a reinvigorated and re-energised national counterterrorism campaign, which entailed augmenting the kinetic efforts of the armed forces with support from all law enforcement agencies, as well as effective legislation to address legal voids that hinder effective prosecution of terrorism-related cases.

Source: Dawn News
 
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif clarified that the majority of operations under 'Azm-e-Istehkam' will be conducted in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and Balochistan, adding that a detailed framework will be clarified within the next few days

Speaking at a press conference at PML-N secretariat in Lahore's Model Town on Tuesday, Asif stated, "If we reach an agreement to conduct it [Operation Azm-e-Istehkam], we will also agree on its details."

"This operation will be slightly different from previous ones. It will commence with actions against terrorists. The operation has no political motives; its sole purpose is to counter the recent surge in terrorism, and therefore, it should be supported by everyone."

Asif highlighted that the government's previous decisions to pardon terrorists had adverse effects.

"According to military leadership, the decision to grant amnesty to terrorists was made by the civil leadership. This matter will be openly discussed to reach a consensus," he said.

He emphasised the importance of support from the bureaucracy and media, stating, "We need to build consensus on this operation in the House."

Asif acknowledged concerns from political parties about their vote banks but assured that legal and constitutional aspects would be addressed. "My request is for national-level support," he urged.

The defence minister highlighted that previous operations caused displacement, but this one will be intelligence-based.

He added that when the National Action Plan was formulated, various regions of the country were under terrorist control.

He mentioned previous operations like Zarb-e-Azb and the tragic APS attack in December 2016, which led to the formulation of the National Action Plan.

"The situation is different now; it's not that there is a Taliban rule necessitating this plan," he stated.

"Now, some areas are still affected by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) activities, but the situation is not as dire as before," he remarked.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Some awful videos and pictures of troops being killed mutilated, beheaded missing limbs.

In lower dir apparently namak haram crossed over and took over huge areas
The big question is who made them cross the border or who facilitated them. Its the same army who protects our borders. If someone is crossing the borders then who will stop them?
 

Cabinet approves Operation Azm-i-Istehkam​

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News/Web Desk) – A federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday gave approval to Operation Azm-e-Istehkam and other related decisions taken at the Apex Committee formed under the revived National Action Plan (NAP), sources say.

Shehbaz said it would be an intelligence-based exercise and didn’t involve any hardships to general public, as he discussed the rumours circulating regarding the planned anti-terrorism operation.

The development comes as Defence Minister Khawaja Asif earlier in the day explained the reasons and nature of the latest plan to root out terrorism from Pakistan at a press conference in Lahore.

He said the operation had been envisaged to arrest the rise in terrorism activities in recent months and mentioned that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur did not raise any objection to the proposed operation at the Apex Committee meeting.

Noting that the operation is a national security need and not a political move, Khawaja Asif said there should be not only a complete consensus but also a unified action on the part of national institutions. There shouldn’t be a scenario where the terrorists [and their facilitators] get relief from courts, he warned.

 

Military operations since 2010 have only lead to instability: Fazl​


Speaking in the National Assembly (NA) on Wednesday, Fazl yet again condemned Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, stating, "We have been suffering under the guise of operations since 2010. This is not stability, we are doing this for China."

"People were forced to vacate their areas for these operations. Tribal women were sent to deserts, and many places in tribal areas were cleared, forcing people to beg. Their dignity and traditions were harmed," he protested.

Fazl highlighted the insufficient compensation provided to the displaced, saying, "Victims are given Rs400,000 to rebuild their homes. This amount is not enough to build even a bathroom. It’s a joke."

The JUI-F chief maintained that instead of cash, the victims are given tokens.

Fazl lashed out at the current government set-up, "The state has abandoned us. Do we not have any rights as citizens?"

Fazl further criticised the government's policies, "The government is making people jobless. They are closing departments older than Pakistan itself."

Commenting on the recent hike imposed on the salaried class in the recent budget, he stated, "Taxes are imposed on salaries and businesses, yet we demand taxes without providing rights. People will not pay taxes because they don’t trust you. They demand peace and prosperity."

He pointed out the contradictions in government actions, "25,000 to 30,000 Afghans returned to their country, but 40,000 to 50,000 came back to Pakistan. General Bajwa told me that a fence was erected to prevent terrorists from entering. Now, it’s being said that the fence has been removed."

He emphasised the dire situation in many regions maintaining that people have reached the point of starvation in many areas of the country

"People in Chaman have been protesting for nine months. Is this how a country treats its border populations? These people have no alternative employment. Mothers and sisters sold their jewellery, but even that money is gone. Now, they are forced to sell household items. Does the state realise this?"

 

PTI opposes Operation Azm-e-Istehkam in K-P jirga​


The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) officially opposed Operation Azm-e-Istehkam during a tribal jirga in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) on Wednesday. It also passed a resolution calling for the release of Imran Khan from jail.

According to Express News, PTI organised a jirga to deliberate on Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, attended by elders and dignitaries from various tribes in K-P.

The central and provincial leadership of PTI were present on the occasion and speeches were made by various leaders, including head of the Tehreek Tahaffuz-e- Ain-e-Pakistan (TTAP) Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

Key resolutions passed

The jirga approved a resolution addressing barriers to trade with Afghanistan and ongoing negotiations at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Another resolution opposing Operation Azm-e-Istehkam was presented, with participants demanding that the matter be debated in the national and provincial assemblies, involving all stakeholders.

Additionally, a resolution calling for the release of PTI leaders and workers, including the party's founding chairman, who they claimed have been detained on political charges, was approved while another resolution recognising the local population's rights to natural resources was also passed by a show of hands.

Resolutions passed by majority vote

Several resolutions were presented at the jirga, all of which were approved by majority vote. K-P Information Advisor Barrister Saif stated that the approved resolutions would be presented in the provincial assembly and the council.

The chief minister will present the approved resolutions in the provincial assembly for further approval, he added.

 

Tribal jirga rejects Operation Azm-e-Istehkam as ‘destabilising’, says Fazl​


In a media briefing following a tribal jirga in Peshawar on Thursday, Fazl explained that the jirga was convened before the Azm-e-Istehkam operation decision made by the government and that it was not on the agenda. However, the jirga deemed the operation destabilising and expressed its lack of confidence in it.

He pointed out that armed groups have spread to several areas, controlling traffic and setting up checkpoints, with police in the southern districts avoiding leaving their stations at night.

Fazl highlighted the sacrifices made by the people of Swat, who were displaced from their homes. "Youth have become unemployed, and women are begging. Those whose homes were completely destroyed were given token compensation of 400,000 rupees, but they have not received the money yet," he said.

He condemned the violations of tribal sanctity and economic destruction, adding that fencing had forced 20,000 to 30,000 people to cross the border and return more powerful.

"State affairs are not settled in haste," he said. "When asked why this is happening, they say people came from Afghanistan, where American interests dictated the governments, except for the Islamic Emirate."

The JUI-F chief questioned why interference from Iran is resolved within a week while a different approach is taken with Afghanistan. He lamented that Afghanistan has been drenched in blood since the 1980s and wondered why stability is not being allowed there, suggesting an external agenda at play.

He stated that a decision was made to give armed groups a peaceful route, asserting, "We want to make Pakistan an Islamic Emirate under the Constitution and law."

Fazl stressed the sensitivity of the situation in his country. "I did not disagree with Sufi Muhammad's movement in Malakand, but the method was wrong. Azm-e-Istehkam is not my concern; I now want to sbring the country out of quagmire, not just the government," he concluded.

 

TTP hideouts in Afghanistan can be targeted under Azm-e-Istehkam: Asif​


Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that under Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, the government could target terrorist hideouts across the border in Afghanistan.

In an interview with Voice of America (VoA) on Thursday, Asif explained that the decision for Operation Azm-e-Istehkam was not made hastily. However, he acknowledged a political environment where parties are reluctant to give space to government decisions.

He assured that any political parties' concerns about the operation would be addressed, and the government would bring the matter to the assembly to answer questions and build trust among members.

Asif dismissed the possibility of negotiations with the banned TTP, stating, “There is no ground for dialogue.” He questioned the success of the PTI government's reintegration of 4,000 to 5,000 TTP militants, asking, “If that experiment was successful, let us know so we can follow suit.”

He claimed previous operations were successful, with the Pakistan Armed Forces being the main stakeholders then and now. However, he criticised successive civilian governments for failing to play their part post-operation.

Khawaja Asif expressed the desire to engage with the opposition and all political parties to ensure the success of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, informing them of its contours. He noted that the cabinet had approved the operation, and discussions could take place in the assembly or an all-parties conference.

He observed that the chief minister of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, had not opposed the operation at any stage. The decision was driven by economic difficulties and aimed at targeting TTP hideouts across the border because, as Asif stated, “Nothing is more important than the country's integrity.”

Asif justified targeting terrorist sanctuaries in Afghanistan, arguing it does not violate international laws since terrorism was being exported to Pakistan from there. He blamed the 4,000 sleeper cell members brought back on Imran Khan's orders for spreading unrest in Pakistan.

 

Security forces eliminate nine terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa operations​

Security forces on Monday neutralised nine terrorists in two separate operations conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations, in an intelligence-based operation in Tira, Khyber District, security forces eliminated seven terrorists, including high-value targets Terrorist Commander Najeeb Abdul Rehman and Terrorist Commander Ishfaq Muavia.

These terrorists were actively involved in various terrorist activities and were wanted by law enforcement agencies. The operation also led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and explosives from the terrorists.

In another operation in Lakki Marwat District, troops successfully engaged a terrorist location, resulting in the elimination of two terrorists.

Sanitization operations are ongoing in the area to ensure the elimination of any remaining terrorists.

The Security Forces of Pakistan remain committed to eradicating the threat of terrorism from the country.

Source: SAMAA
 
Militant attacks down 20pc in June: PICSS data

The month of June saw 20 per cent decline in militant attacks, resulting in fewer deaths and injuries.

According to data released by an Islamabad-based think-tank, Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), militants carried out 69 attacks across the country last month. These attacks resulted in 60 deaths, including 33 security forces personnel, 26 civilians, and one militant. Additionally, 65 people were injured: 33 civilians, 31 security forces personnel, and one militant. Compared to May, there was a 20 per cent decline in militant attacks, a 33 per cent decrease in resultant deaths, and a 25 per cent decrease in injuries.

The month of June also witnessed the arrest of TTP top commander Nasrullah alias Molvi Mansoor, a member of the group’s Shura.

The data shows that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) remained the most affected province, followed by Balochistan. In KP, militants carried out 27 attacks, resulting in 21 deaths, including 15 security forces personnel and five civilians, while 18 people were injured, including nine civilians, eight security forces personnel, and one militant. Militants also kidnapped five people, highlighting a rising trend in kidnapping in the province.

In tribal districts of KP (erstwhile Fata), militants carried out 28 attacks, resulting in 30 deaths, including 18 civilians and 12 security forces personnel, and 28 injuries, including 16 security forces personnel and 12 civilians.

Balochistan witnessed 11 attacks, resulting in six deaths, including four security forces personnel and two civilians, while 14 people were injured, including eight civilians and six security forces personnel. Insurgents also kidnapped 10 people from Balochistan, three of them were later released.

Balochistan recorded a 52 per cent decline in militant attacks, an 80 per cent decline in resultant deaths, and a 69 per cent decline in injuries in June, which is significant in the context of the prevailing security situation.

Punjab and Sindh also saw improvement in security, with the former witnessing one and the latter two militant attacks, resulting in one death in Punjab and two in Sindh.

DAWN
 

Ex-senator among three killed in remote-controlled blast in Bajaur​


In Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), a remote-controlled bomb explosion claimed the lives of former Senator Hidayatullah and two others on Wednesday.

According to K-P Police, the blast targeted the vehicle of former Senator Hidayatullah in the Damadola area of Mamund Tehsil, completely destroying the vehicle.

The police reported that the remote-controlled explosion resulted in the immediate deaths of former Senator Hidayatullah and two others. The other victims were identified as Malik Irfan from Banda Niag and Nazar Din from Nawagai.

Hidayatullah was the brother of former K-P Governor Shaukatullah and the son of former National Assembly member Haji Bismillah Khan.

 
Every few years the military launches an offensive to wipe out terrorism. This time it seems like it’s to get advanced weaponry from the U.S.
 
All parties to be taken on board on ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ operation: Sanaullah

Advisor to Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Wednesday said that all the political parties would be taken on board before launching “Azm-e-Istehkam” operation.

Keeping in view the wave of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and other parts, “Operation Azm-e-Istehkam is need of the hour”, Rana Sanaullah said while talking to a private television channel.

Opposition parties should bring their point of view regarding operation at the forum of Parliament, he said, adding: “We hope that all the political parties including Opposition would have the same opinion on launching the operation”.

Commenting on dialogue with Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI), he said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the floor of the house had given clear statement and offered dialogue with the PTI for resolving political issues.

Expressing dismay over the stubborn attitude of PTI founder Imran Khan, Rana Sanaullah said his negative agenda is the main hurdle in talks process. He advised PTI to avoid politics of agitation and come forward for talks with the government.

In reply to a question about flaws in the system, he said it is the responsibility of all the political parties to bring the suggestions at the parliamentary forum so that we could amend the system for bright future of Pakistan. He said dialogue is the only way out to address all the issues.

The remarks came as opposition parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have opposed the Opposition Azm-e-Istehkam, announced by the government to combat terrorism.

The launching of the operation was announced in a meeting of the Central Apex Committee of National Action Plan, which was chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.



ARY News
 
Is it Zarb-e-Azb 2.0?

more like a lighter version of zarb e azb
I think there's a lot of confusion even in Pakistani official circles about what it really means. I recently listened to a discussion wtih Iftikhar Firdous (Khorasan Diary) and he seemed to explain that it was more a sort of national resolve to keep what has been gained in previous operations like Zard-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad rather than a specific military operation. He also explained that while there are no real no-go areas (especially in the day) for the Pakistan Establishment left in FATA etc., it's clear that TTP writ still runs very strong and they effectively run local administration.
 
A high-profile terrorist was killed on Thursday, while seven other people were injured during an hours-long shootout operation conducted by security forces in Diamer, Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), officials said

Speaking to Dawn.com, GB’s Interior Minister Shams Lone confirmed the development, adding that an accomplice of the terrorist was injured during the shootout.

Pakistan has intensified its operations nationwide in response to an increasing militant threat. Although the affiliation of the killed terrorist remains unknown, the majority of attacks in the country’s northern areas, especially near the Afghanistan border, are typically executed by the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

“Terrorist commander Shah Faisal was killed during an intelligence-based security operation in the Darel district of GB, while his accomplice, Zahidullah, was injured,” Lone said. “The hours-long shootout led to a very tense situation in the district.”

He added that a young girl, an elderly man, and four GB Scouts were also injured during the exchange of fire, while another terrorist is still at large and is being pursued.

According to Lone, the slain terrorist had masterminded a bus attack in Chilas last December, killing eight and injuring 18. However, according to a Dawn report, the death toll of the incident was nine, while 21 others were injured.

Officials said unknown gunmen had targeted the bus, operated by a local private company, from nearby hills which caused the vehicle to swerve into a goods truck, causing a head-on collision which also killed the truck driver. A day after the incident, Diamer police had arrested six suspects in connection with the attack, which Lone had termed terrorism.

GB government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq told Dawn.com that security has been put on high alert at the Karakoram Highway and Gilgit city.

Checking procedures at entry and exiting points have been intensified as well, he added.

Health emergency imposed in Diamer
In the wake of the incident, the GB health department has imposed an emergency in all health facilities across the district.

A notification issued by the health department directed all medical superintendents of the Chilas Regional Headquarters Hospital and Tangi Tehsil Headquarters Hospital, as well as the Diamer District Health Officer, to remain at their stations and not leave without seeking permission.

It further directed all doctors and paramedics in Diamer to be on duty while ensuring an adequate supply of necessary medicines and the availability of ambulances.

Source :Dawn News
 
Three killed in IED blast targetting police van in Mardan

At least three people were killed and seven others injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast near a police van adjacent to Jalala bridge in the Takhtbhai area of Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) on Friday.

Rescue teams, police and security forces immediately reached the site following the blast and shifted the injured to a nearby hospital.

As per details, nearly 11 people were injured when the blast occurred. The wounded were rushed to the hospital, where three of them succumbed to their injuries.

Mardan District Police Officer (DPO) Zahoor Barbar Afridi confirmed the number of casualties of the bomb blast that targeted police. He said that two cops travelling in the van were among the injured.

The official said that the explosive material was planted by the road, which blew off as soon as the law enforcers' van passed by.

He said that a rickshaw present nearby was hit by the blast. One of the deceased was a passenger of this rickshaw, he added.

The DPO further stated that a search operation was launched after cordoning off the area.

On Wednesday, at least five people, including former senator Hidayat Ullah, were killed in a "remote-controlled" bomb explosion targeting a vehicle in KP's Bajur district.

Hidayat, who was a former independent senator from erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata), was killed in the bomb explosion along with four others.

Police had said that the incident took place in Bajaur’s Damadola village where the former senator's vehicle was targeted via a remote-controlled device,

Pakistan has witnessed a sharp rise in militant attacks, especially in KP and Balochistan, since the banned outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) put the truce with Islamabad to an end.

However, no group has claimed responsibility for the latest attack yet.

In order to turn up the heat on militants, the federal government last month approved the launching of a counter-terrorism operation on the National Action Plan's Central Apex Committee's recommendations.

Taking notice of the incident, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi condemned the explosion and expressed sorrow over the loss of two lives in the blast.

He extended sympathies to the bereaved families and prayed for the highest place of the victims in eternal peace and speedy recovery of the injured.

 
Top military brass says Operation “Azm-e-Istehkam” aimed at achieving lasting stability and progress

General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) presided over 265th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) held at GHQ.

Forum paid rich tribute to the supreme sacrifices of Shuhadas of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies and the citizens who have laid their lives for peace and stability in the country.

The forum undertook a comprehensive review of internal and external security situation of the country and had detailed discussion on various aspects of “Azm-e-Istehkam”, which is aimed at harnessing the national counter terrorism efforts in a synchronised manner to dismantle the nexus of terrorism and illegal spectrum in the country for enduring stability and economic prosperity. Forum noted with concern the unwarranted criticism by some quarters and deliberate misrepresentation of the vision, only for furthering their vested interests.

The forum also deliberated upon regional security situation, especially Afghanistan and reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and security.

The forum expressed solidarity with the people of Kashmir and Palestine. Forum condemned serious human rights violations, war crimes and genocide being perpetrated in Kashmir and Gaza.

The forum affirmed that military leadership is cognizant of the full spectrum of the challenges and resolved to shoulder its constitutionally mandated responsibilities with support of the resilient people of Pakistan.

The forum underscored that onslaught of politically motivated digital terrorism, unleashed by conspirators, duly abetted by their foreign cohorts against state institutions is meant to induce despondency in the nation and sow discord through peddling of blatant lies, fake news and propaganda. However, the Armed Forces along with the nation are fully aware of all such machinations and stand united and committed in defeating the notorious designs of the enemies of Pakistan.

Forum reiterated to continue full support of ongoing efforts in uplifting the socioeconomic growth and wholeheartedly assisting the government in curbing all illegal activities which hamper investors’ confidence, economic stability and growth.

Expressing full satisfaction on Army’s commitment to national security, COAS stressed upon maintaining high standards of professionalism and operational preparedness. To conclude, COAS remarked that Pakistan Army has always been fully prepared to thwart all internal and external challenges and play its due role in the stability and prosperity of Pakistan, regardless of the challenges posed.

 
Swat people rally against proposed military operation

The people of Swat took to the streets in large numbers, rejecting the proposed Azm-i-Istehkam military operation and made it clear that the valley was completely peaceful and there was no need to launch an operation here.

Rallies were held in Kabal and Khwazakhela tehsils organised by Swat Olasi Pasoon (Swat public uprising).

Holding white flags inscribed with slogans for peace, the Kabal rally started from Khwazakhela Chowk and ended at Matta Chowk, while another rally started from Kabal Chowk and ended at Aligrama.

The participants chanted slogans rejecting terrorism, militancy, and extremism in Swat. The rallies resonated with the slogans of peace.

The participants said that the people of Swat had suffered from 2007 to 2009, first from the Taliban insurgency and then from the military operation, which resulted in mass displacements.

They said people suffered extremely difficult and harsh times due to curfews, search operations and checkposts. Despite this, they said the people extended relentless sacrifices for the sake of Pakistan.

The protesters said hundreds of innocent people lost their lives in bomb blasts, targeted killing and suicide attacks. They said people were also ‘disgraced’ at checkposts and during search operations. They said they could not afford to become refugees once more.

The protesters vowed not to allow any terrorist or Taliban militant in Swat and said if they found any such elements they would stand united and eliminate them themselves.

They said that they wouldn’t accept any military operation on their soil.

The protesters warned that if the government tried to launch a military operation, all the people of Swat would be on the roads against it.

DAWN
 
JI opposes Azm-e-Istehkam, calls for talks with Taliban

Jamaat-e-Islami leader Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has warned against the consequences of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam and called for negotiations with the Taliban.

Speaking at a public gathering at the Bajaur Sports Complex on Monday, Rehman emphasised that Pakistan, particularly the Pashtun belt, cannot endure more military operations.

He stated that no military operations should be conducted under any pretext, calling for peace and urging the inclusion of all political parties and the public in this matter. He argued that military operations sow hatred between the army and the public.

Rehman highlighted that military operations create rifts between the public and the military, leading to more harm than good. He urged that American interests should not dictate foreign policy and should be independent.

Stressing the importance of dialogue, he further said that negotiations are the solution to problems, not wars.

He called for talks with the Taliban and stressed that Pakistan should engage in negotiations with Afghanistan as it is not an enemy. He also urged Afghanistan to ensure its land is not used against Pakistan.

Rehman challenged the PTI to present its eleven-year performance to the public, emphasising the need for education, healthcare, and employment. He demanded that people be given the right to live with dignity.

Other leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami also spoke at the gathering, voicing opposition to the operation. The event saw a large turnout, with attendees holding placards that read “We Want Peace.”

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 

US and Pakistan conduct first joint counterterrorism exercise to address ‘perpetual terrorism threat’​


In a first, the United States and Pakistan conducted a two-week counterterrorism exercise at the National Counter Terrorism Center in Pabbi, Punjab province, to address the “perpetual terrorism threat” faced by both nations, the military’s media wing announced on Wednesday.

Last year, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir met with US Central Command (CENTCOM) Chief General Michael Erik Kurilla in Washington where both military leaders emphasized the need to increase joint military training between the two countries.

The US and Pakistan have shared strong defense and security relations in the past, particularly during the Cold War after the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. However, more recently, US officials criticized Pakistan for not sufficiently supporting their military efforts against the Taliban following the 9/11 attacks.

“The Infantry Rifle Company Exercise 2024 between Pakistan and the US has been conducted for the first time in the counter-terrorism domain,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement. “The two-week-long exercise commenced on June 29, 2024, at the National Counter Terrorism Center in Pabbi.”

The statement noted that Pakistani and US troops participated in the exercise with “efficiency and zeal,” displaying the highest standards of professional excellence.

The exercise focused on marksmanship skills, urban warfare tactics and refining individual and collective expertise. The training aimed to improve drills and procedures while sharing vital counterterrorism experience.

The US State Department has reiterated its commitment to expanding security cooperation with Pakistan, with counterterrorism as top priority.

Matthew Miller, the department’s spokesperson, stated this week the two countries have a “shared interest” in combating regional security threats when asked if the US would support Pakistan if it conducts cross-border attacks against militant targets in Afghanistan.

 

Three soldiers martyred in shootout with terrorists in South Waziristan​


Three soldiers of Pakistan Army embraced martyrdom while gallantly fighting against terrorists during a fire exchange that took place between security forces and terrorists in South Waziristan district on Tuesday.

During intense exchange of fire, three brave soldiers; Sepoy Asad Ullah (age 30 years, resident of Mitiari District), Sepoy Muhammad Sufyan (age 28 years, resident of DI Khan District) & Non Combatant Bearer Zain Ali (age 24 years, resident of Bahwalnagar District), having fought gallantly, embraced Shahadat, an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said.

“Sanitization operation is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area.

Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” the ISPR said.

PM EXPRESSES GRIEF

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the Shahadat of three personnel of security forces who laid down their lives while fighting with terrorists in South Waziristan.

The prime minister prayed for the eternal peace of departed souls and for the bereaved families to bear the losses with equanimity, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

The prime minister further said that Sepoy Asadullah, sepoy Muhammad Suffyan and non-combatant bearer Zain Ali embraced martyrdom while setting a precedent of bravery and valour.

The entire nation, including him, paid tribute to their sacrifices, he added.

He said the nation was unitedly standing along with its armed forces to eliminate the specter of terrorism from the country.

The prime minister also reiterated the resolve to continue fight against terrorism till its complete elimination.

 
TTP commander with Rs6 million bounty eliminated

A top military strategist of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) carrying a multimillion bounty on his head was eliminated along with his second-in-command and a guard in a joint intelligence-based operation in a village on the edge of Peshawar on Wednesday.

At least four security men were also martyred in the IBO jointly conducted by the Pakistan Army and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of the K-P Police in Hassankhel village located in the Mattani suburb of Peshawar.

The joint IBO was carried out on the reported presence of a high-profile terrorist in the area, according to a statement issued by the military’s media wing. “During the conduct of the operation, three terrorists, including HVT terrorist commander Abdul Raheem, were sent to hell after an intense exchange of fire,” it said, adding that weapons and ammunition were recovered from them.

Terrorist commander Abdul Raheem was highly wanted by the law enforcement agencies and the government had announced a head money of Rs6 million on him, according to the ISPR.

“He remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities, and was also responsible for the Shahadat of Captain Hussain Jehangir Shaheed and Havildar Shafiq Ullah Shaheed on 26 May 2024,” the statement added. “Today’s operation has avenged the heinous act and has brought the main perpetrator to justice.”

However, the military also confirmed that four brave sons of soil embraced martyrdom during the intense exchange of fire. It identified the martyrs as 34-year-old Sepoy Muhammad Idrees, resident of Swabi district, 34-year-old Sepoy Badam Gul, resident of Kohat district, of Pakistan Army, and 38-year-old Sub Inspector Tajmir Shah, resident of Peshawar district and 34-year-old Assistant Sub Inspector Muhammad Akram, resident of Mansehra district of CTD K-P.

“Pakistan’s security forces stand shoulder to shoulder with other law enforcement agencies to ensure peace and stability across of Pakistan and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve,” reads the ISPR statement.

HVT Abdul Raheem had previously survived two drone strikes and multiple counter-terror operations. He was TTP’s chief operations commander in the region and a member of the group’s Peshawar Shura, said senior police officials. Abdul Raheem was responsible for training recruits, operational management of the group’s activities and selecting targets for attacks.

He had joined the Frontier Constabulary (FC) but deserted it in 2013. After hiding for almost three years, he reemerged in 2016 as a member of the banned militant outfit. The TTP also released a short statement, confirming the death of commander Abdul Raheem during the Mattani operation.

There has been a spurt in terrorist violence in K-P since the takeover of Kabul by the Taliban. Islamabad has repeatedly shared credible evidence with the de facto rulers of Afghanistan of TTP’s sanctuaries on their soil. However, the Taliban have been reluctant to act against the TTP.

Wednesday’s IBO came a day after five security officials, including an Army captain, were martyred in three separate incidents in Lakki Marwat, North and South Waziristan districts.

Captain Muhammad Osama bin Arshad, 24, a resident of Rawalpindi district, was martyred during an exchange of fire between security forces and militants in North Waziristan, while three other soldiers were martyred in South Waziristan district during intense clashes with militants.

Meanwhile, Shaheed Captain Osama bin Arshad was laid to rest with full military honours in his ancestral area on Wednesday. A large number of senior military officers, soldiers, youth, relatives of the martyr, and local residents attended the funeral. “The war against terrorism will continue until the eradication of terrorism from the motherland,” the ISPR said in a statement.

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
Azm-e-Istehkam: Govt 'decides to initiate national dialogue' on new anti-terror operation

Finalising its strategy regarding Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government has decided to initiate a national dialogue to root out terrorism and extremism in the country, sources told Geo News on Thursday.

PM Shehbaz, the sources added, has taken cabinet members into confidence over the new counter-terrorism operation's scope and the reason behind launching the new anti-terror drive.

Last month, the federal cabinet approved the decisions taken by the National Action Plan's Central Apex Committee including the launch of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam.

The sources say that the security forces handed over the cleared areas from the terrorists to the provincial governments.

"Due to the failure of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, terrorists returned to the cleared areas," the added.

The government's decision drew reservations from several political parties including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), the Awami National Party (ANP), Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and others.

In response, the Centre has maintained that "no large-scale military operation is being launched" in the country which might result in mass evictions and has reassured that the matter will be brought before the parliament.

PM Shehbaz has also decided to convene an all-parties conference (APC) to evolve consensus on the operation with PTI founder Imran Khan supporting the initiative, saying his party would attend the government-hosted huddle.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Army has also denounced the undue criticism against the newly launched anti-terrorism operation stating that the "vision" was being misrepresented deliberately for "vested interests".

The military’s media wing said the new operation is aimed at harnessing the national counter-terrorism efforts in a synchronised manner to dismantle the nexus of terrorism and illegal spectrum in the country for enduring stability and economic prosperity.

"Forum noted with concern the unwarranted criticism by some quarters and deliberate misrepresentation of the vision, only for furthering their vested interests," the ISPR had said.

Pakistan has witnessed a significant surge in terrorist attacks in recent months resulting in scores of both civilian and security forces' casualties.

Pakistan has time again called on Afghanistan's Taliban-led administration to prevent its soil from being used by various terrorist organisations against Pakistan — an allegation Kabul has denied.

 
CTD arrests TTP terrorist Hidayatullah in raid

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has arrested Hidayatullah alias "Abdul Hakeem", a member of a banned Tehreek E Taliban (TTP) organisation, during an operation in the site area of Karachi.

CTD spokesperson stated that the arrested terrorist is affiliated with the TTP's Swat faction and was involved in fundraising for the terrorist group.

The CTD reported that Hidayatullah was apprehended along with 6,000 rupees in donation funds.

The department noted that Hidayatullah's father, Muhammad Ghaus, was killed during an operation in Afghanistan in 2000, and his brother, Fazalullah, has been missing since the Swat operation.

Hidayatullah was allegedly collecting donations in Karachi to support his associates. Police are now conducting raids to capture his accomplices.

Previously, CTD of Sindh Police claimed on July 10 that they have arrested a commander of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) during a raid in Ittehad Town.

A Kalashnikov assault rifle, two hand grenades, RDX explosives, and an improvised explosive device (IED) were also recovered from the possession of the suspected TTP operative identified by CTD as Muhammad Shoaib.

According to investigators, Shoaib has confessed to planning a suicide attack on a Muharram mourning procession in Orangi Town, disclosing his collaboration with accomplice Ishaq for the planned terrorist act.

He also admitted his involvement in the brutal killing of 16 coal mine workers in Khyber Agency, whose bodies were discovered in a mass grave after they failed to meet ransom demands.

While briefing media persons, CTD DIG Asif Ijaz Shaikh said that Shoaib's son, Zakaullah, was killed in an encounter with the Pakistan Army.

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government had previously announced a Rs2 million reward for information leading to Shoaib's capture.

SOURCE: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479340/ctd-arrests-ttp-terrorist-hidayatullah-in-raid
 
Security forces thwart ‘terrorist attack’ on Bannu cantt

Security forces have foiled a ‘terrorist attack’ on Bannu Cantt (Cantonment) early morning today, ARY News reported citing sources.


According to sources, the terrorists attempted to enter the Cantt by detonating an explosive-laden vehicle on the road between the outer wall of Bannu Cantt and the supply depot at 4:40 am.

Security forces responded promptly, confining the terrorists to a corner and thwarting their plans. A clearance operation has been launched to ensure the area is secure, sources added.

Earlier, police vehicle narrowly escaped an attempted explosive blast attack in Torka Bazaar Bannu.

DPO Ziauddin Ahmed said that an explosive device planted by unknown assailants detonated before the vehicle arrived.

The device was planted near Akhoondan Sorani in Torka Bazaar, but it exploded before the police vehicle reached the spot, foiling chances of any potential damage or casualties, no damage or injuries were reported in the incident.

It is pertinent to mention here that the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) report revealed that the number of terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has increased in 2024.

According to the report, this year 273 terrorist incidents occurred in the province, targeting 118 policemen.

The report highlights that as many as 1,433 operations were carried out in 2024 so far in which 322 terrorists were arrested and 124 were killed.

Furthermore, 55 terror attacks were failed including two suicide attacks planned in Peshawar, the report revealed.

 
8 security officials martyred in suicide blast targeting Bannu Cantonment, 10 terrorists killed: ISPR

A terrorist attack targeting Bannu Cantonment on Monday martyred eight members of the security forces while a retaliatory operation killed 10 terrorists, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has said.

According to a press release issued by the military’s media wing today, an attempt by 10 terrorists to enter Bannu Cantonment in the early hours of Monday was “effectively thwarted” by security forces personnel, “which forced the terrorists to ram an explosive laden vehicle into perimeter wall of the cantonment.”

Resultantly, the suicide blast caused a portion of a wall to collapse and damaged infrastructure, resulting in the martyrdom of eight security forces, it said.

The martyrs were identified as Naib Subedar Muhammad Shehzad, 44; Havildar Zil-e-Hussain, 39; Havildar Shahzad Ahmed, 28; Sepoy Ashfaq Hussain Khan, 30; Sepoy Sobhan Majeed, 22; Sepoy Imtiaz Khan, 30; Sepoy Arsalan Aslam, 26, belonging to the Pakistan Army as well as Lance Naik Sabz Ali, 34, of the Frontier Constabulary.

“In the ensuing operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists as a result of which all ten terrorists were sent to hell,” the statement said.

“This timely and effective response by the security forces prevented major catastrophe, saving precious innocent lives.

“The gallant and selfless action of the security forces is a testament of unrelenting resolve in fight against terrorism.”

The ISPR statement attributed the “heinous act of terrorism” to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, “which operates from Afghanistan and has used Afghan soil to orchestrate acts of terrorism inside Pakistan in the past as well.”

Pakistan has consistently raised its concerns with Interim Afghan Government, asking them to deny persistent use of Afghan soil by the terrorists and take effective action against such elements, the statement read.

“Pakistan Armed Forces will keep defending the motherland and its people against this menace of terrorism and will take all necessary measures as deemed appropriate against these threats emanating from Afghanistan.”

A day ago, officials told Dawn that militants stormed a check post adjacent to a supply depot, adding that bombers hit the boundary wall of the cantonment near the depot in their attempt to force their entry but security forces besieged them.

“Two suicide bombers attacked the check post initially and then a few others managed to enter, but they were besieged,” the officials said.

They stated that security personnel were fully alert and engaged the militants foiling the attack with a timely response, adding that soldiers fought bravely.

A police official said they increased patrolling in urban and rural localities of Bannu district after the explosion, adding that roads leading to the cantonment were sealed as part of measures to avert any loss to citizens during the exchange of fire between security forces and militants.

Locals said the magnitude of the blast could be judged by the fact that it was heard far and wide in the area. A resident said he heard the explosion in Domel town, some 15km from Bannu city. They said they saw black smoke billowing above the site and also heard gunshots in the cantonment area.

The residents said the blast caused damage to nearby houses and shops, smashed windowpanes and blew up shutters of outlets.

President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the terrorist attack, paying homage to the martyrs.

The president said that the security forces acted on time and saved the country from a “major disaster”, adding that the nation was proud of their efforts.

Source: Dawn News
 
US condoles Bannu terror attack, vows continued cooperation with Pakistan

The United States reaffirmed its commitment to counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan, noting its long history of working together.

"The US and Pakistan have worked together in the past, and we continue to discuss ways that we can work together," stated Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder on Tuesday.

In a press briefing, Ryder expressed condolences for the eight Pakistani soldiers who were martyred and dozens injured in a terrorist attack.

On Monday, ten terrorists targeted the Bannu Cantonment in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the martyrdom of eight soldiers, the military said in a statement.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attackers attempted to infiltrate the cantonment but were repelled, leading them to detonate an explosive-laden vehicle against the perimeter wall.

The statement said that the suicide blast led to the collapse of a portion of the wall and damaged the adjoining infrastructure, resulting in the martyrdom of eight soldiers.

Ryder stated, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those soldiers that were lost."

He acknowledged the challenging fight Pakistan faces against terrorism in the region and reiterated the sorrow felt by the United States.

When asked about potential US support for Pakistan in light of these events, Ryder highlighted the history of counterterrorism cooperation between the two nations. He mentioned that discussions are ongoing regarding ways to enhance this collaboration.

"The US and Pakistan have worked together in the past, and we continue to discuss ways that we can work together," he noted.

Addressing the query about providing modern American weapons to Pakistan, Ryder did not offer any definitive announcements.

He acknowledged the security cooperation relationship with Pakistan and assured that discussions are being held to assess Pakistan's needs and determine how the US can support them.

The issue of American weapons left in Afghanistan falling into terrorist hands was also brought up.

Ryder assured that the US is aware of these concerns and is engaging with Pakistan through established mechanisms to address them.

SOURCE: https://tribune.com.pk/story/248043...tack-vows-continued-cooperation-with-pakistan
 
Top Al-Qaeda terrorist linked to Osama Bin Laden arrested in Gujrat

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab has arrested a close associate of former Al-Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden in a major operation, a CTD spokesperson announced on Friday.

The spokesperson stated that the terrorist, Amin ul-Haq, was apprehended following an intelligence-based operation (IBO). Haq is a prominent Al-Qaeda terrorist, and his name is included on the United Nations' global terrorist list.

According to the spokesperson, legal proceedings against the arrested militant have been initiated, and an investigation is underway.

CTD officials affirmed their commitment to a safe Punjab, emphasising their determination to uproot the scourge of terrorism. The department remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate terrorism from its roots.

On May 12, the CTD killed a suspected sharpshooter and alleged member of the banned militant group Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Faizan Butt, who was involved in three attacks on police officers in Lahore within a week in an encounter in Karol Ghatti.

Faizan had shot dead a sub-inspector and a constable after following them when they were going home. He had also shot and injured a police constable.

The suspect had a knack for spotting unarmed police officers in uniform. He would occasionally venture out, roam the city, find a target, pursue them, and shoot when the moment was right.

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 

Six killed in suspected militant violence in Pakistan, citizens hold protest rallies demanding peace​


Four people, including a policeman and a paramilitary soldier, were killed in suspected militant attacks in Pakistan’s northwestern and southwestern regions on Friday, officials said, while at least two others perished in shooting at a protest rally in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province against the worsening security environment.

KP, which borders Afghanistan, has seen a surge in attacks on security forces, government officials and anti-polio vaccination teams in recent weeks. Attacks have also spiked in the southwestern Balochistan province, home to a decades-long insurgency by separatist fighters.

The shocking surge in daily attacks has unleashed protests in KP’s Bannu and Tank districts, with citizens demanding authorities ensure peace in the two districts that have been worst-hit by the militancy surge. In Bannu in particular, ten soldiers were killed earlier this week when militants attacked a military cantonment.

In a fresh attack on Friday, two people were killed and four others wounded when a bomb targeted a militant commander, Ain Ullah, associated with Mullah Nazeer group, a Pakistan Taliban (TTP) faction, in the South Waziristan tribal district, according to police.

“A bomb exploded near Maulvi Noor Muhammad mosque this morning, leaving two persons dead and four injured,” Fareed Wazir, a police officer in the town of Wana, told Arab News. “It was a planted bomb. Police are investigating the matter to identify the perpetrators.”

Separately, a policeman was killed and two others injured when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a police check-post in the Bhai area of KP’s Mardan district, rescue officials said.

Meanwhile, unidentified gunmen opened fire at a protest rally in Bannu, killing at least two protesters and injuring another two dozen, according to provincial officials.

“At least two persons died and 24 were wounded when all of a sudden firing started during a peace rally by hundreds and thousands of people in Bannu,” KP Public Health Engineering Minister Pakhtoon Yar Khan told Arab News, saying he had “narrowly escaped” the gunfire.

Khan said the recent unrest in Bannu had disrupted businesses, educational institutions and public life, and residents wanted peace “at any cost.”

Arab News tried reaching out to the Bannu district police officer, Ziauddin Ahmad, to get more details of the incident, but he did not return phone calls.

Later, commenting on the development the provincial administration’s spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif said in a video statement people had the right to hold peaceful protests, though no one would be allowed to take law into their hands.

He said Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had taken notice of the situation in Bannu and asked the commissioner and deputy commissioner of the region to hold negotiations with protesters.

“After negotiations with the elders, the situation is under control,” the KP spokesperson said. “The chief minister has also announced a package for those killed and injured in the incident.”

He added the incident would be investigated and those responsible for the violence would be punished.

In Tank, hundreds of people continued a two-day long sit-in over the fragile security situation in the district.

Pattu Bhittani, one of the organizers of the protest, told Arab News the residents were “fed up” of frequent militant attacks and living in a state of insecurity.

“Till the acceptance of our demands, which is restoration of peace, the entire district will boycott the polio campaign and hoist black flags on their vehicles and homes as a token of protest,” Bhittani said, warning that the protesters would also block highways if their demands were not met.

Islamabad blames the recent surge in attacks, including the July 15 attack on the army cantonment in Bannu, on militants mainly from the TTP operating out of neighboring Afghanistan. Kabul denies the allegations and says rising violence in Pakistan is a domestic issue for Islamabad.

Pakistani forces were able to effectively dismantle the TTP in a string of military operations in KP’s tribal districts from 2014 onwards, driving most of the fighters into neighboring Afghanistan, where Islamabad says they have regrouped.

Islamabad says TTP leaders have taken refuge in Afghanistan and now run camps there to train insurgents to launch attacks inside Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban rulers say Kabul does not allow militants to operate on its territory.

 
Last edited:
Four people, including a policeman and a paramilitary soldier, were killed in suspected militant attacks in Pakistan’s northwestern and southwestern regions on Friday, officials said, while at least two others perished in shooting at a protest rally in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province against the worsening security environment.

KP, which borders Afghanistan, has seen a surge in attacks on security forces, government officials and anti-polio vaccination teams in recent weeks. Attacks have also spiked in the southwestern Balochistan province, home to a decades-long insurgency by separatist fighters.

The shocking surge in daily attacks has unleashed protests in KP’s Bannu and Tank districts, with citizens demanding authorities ensure peace in the two districts that have been worst-hit by the militancy surge. In Bannu in particular, ten soldiers were killed earlier this week when militants attacked a military cantonment.

In a fresh attack on Friday, two people were killed and four others wounded when a bomb targeted a militant commander, Ain Ullah, associated with Mullah Nazeer group, a Pakistan Taliban (TTP) faction, in the South Waziristan tribal district, according to police.

“A bomb exploded near Maulvi Noor Muhammad mosque this morning, leaving two persons dead and four injured,” Fareed Wazir, a police officer in the town of Wana, told Arab News. “It was a planted bomb. Police are investigating the matter to identify the perpetrators.”

Separately, a policeman was killed and two others injured when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a police check-post in the Bhai area of KP’s Mardan district, rescue officials said.

Meanwhile, unidentified gunmen opened fire at a protest rally in Bannu, killing at least two protesters and injuring another two dozen, according to provincial officials.

“At least two persons died and 24 were wounded when all of a sudden firing started during a peace rally by hundreds and thousands of people in Bannu,” KP Public Health Engineering Minister Pakhtoon Yar Khan told Arab News, saying he had “narrowly escaped” the gunfire.

Khan said the recent unrest in Bannu had disrupted businesses, educational institutions and public life, and residents wanted peace “at any cost.”

Arab News tried reaching out to the Bannu district police officer, Ziauddin Ahmad, to get more details of the incident, but he did not return phone calls.

Later, commenting on the development the provincial administration’s spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif said in a video statement people had the right to hold peaceful protests, though no one would be allowed to take law into their hands.

He said Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had taken notice of the situation in Bannu and asked the commissioner and deputy commissioner of the region to hold negotiations with protesters.

“After negotiations with the elders, the situation is under control,” the KP spokesperson said. “The chief minister has also announced a package for those killed and injured in the incident.”

He added the incident would be investigated and those responsible for the violence would be punished.

In Tank, hundreds of people continued a two-day long sit-in over the fragile security situation in the district.

Pattu Bhittani, one of the organizers of the protest, told Arab News the residents were “fed up” of frequent militant attacks and living in a state of insecurity.

“Till the acceptance of our demands, which is restoration of peace, the entire district will boycott the polio campaign and hoist black flags on their vehicles and homes as a token of protest,” Bhittani said, warning that the protesters would also block highways if their demands were not met.

Islamabad blames the recent surge in attacks, including the July 15 attack on the army cantonment in Bannu, on militants mainly from the TTP operating out of neighboring Afghanistan. Kabul denies the allegations and says rising violence in Pakistan is a domestic issue for Islamabad.

Pakistani forces were able to effectively dismantle the TTP in a string of military operations in KP’s tribal districts from 2014 onwards, driving most of the fighters into neighboring Afghanistan, where Islamabad says they have regrouped.

Islamabad says TTP leaders have taken refuge in Afghanistan and now run camps there to train insurgents to launch attacks inside Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban rulers say Kabul does not allow militants to operate on its territory.

In the current climate where our establishment are desperate for conflict, who would be surprised that this is our own that are killing our soldiers. The murder of General Safaraz being one such recent example
 
Last edited by a moderator:
FC soldier martyred, 13 injured in Buleda, Pishin attacks

A soldier of Frontier Corps was martyred and 13 others, including CTD personnel, were injured in two attacks in Buleda and Pishin areas on Friday.

A soldier of Quick Response Force of the Frontier Corps South was martyred and seven others were injured in Buleda area of Kech district.

Officials said that some unknown militants had planted an explosive device on the roadside and they detonated it when a vehicle carrying the FC personnel was passing through the area.

“A solider of FC lost his life on the spot and seven others suffered injuries in the powerful blast,” a security official said, adding that the body of the martyred soldier and seven injured soldiers were shifted to a nearby health facility,“ he said.

Police officials said an operation has been launched in the area to trace out miscreants involved in the blast.

In another attack in Pishin area, some unidentified miscreants exploded an improvised explosive device (IED) through a remote control in front of the court of the district and sessions judge of Pishin to target the CTD vehicle which was carrying the department’s personnel.

Officials said the IED blast left three CTD officials and three pedestrians injured.

“Miscreants wanted to target the Station House Officer of CTD Pishin, Chaudhay Asghar, who was travelling in the vehicle,” SSP Pishin Nanzoor Buledi said, adding that the CTD officer survived the attack, but three officials were injured.

“It was an IED which was detonated through a remote control,” he said.

Police and Levies Force personnel rushed to the blast site and shifted the injured to Pishin district hospital.

Meanwhile, provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rind has condemned the attack on the CTD vehicle in Pishin.

He prayed for the quick recovery of the injured, and stated that such cowardly actions cannot demoralise the police.

DAWN
 
Pakistan to pursue 'legal action' against TTP chief after leaked call exposed terror plot

Pakistan has decided to carry out a forensic analysis of the leaked phone call featuring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Chief Noor Wali Mehsud and pursue strict legal action against him and terrorist Ghat Haji after their leaked call exposed the terror plots being planned by the banned organisation, sources told Geo News on Saturday.

Sources say that the government will not only seek the extradition of terrorists from Afghanistan but will also lodge a strong protest with the Afghan Taliban-led interim administration over the TTP head's presence in the country and his direct involvement in terrorist attacks inside Pakistan.

A day earlier a disturbing phone call featuring Noor came to the surface wherein he could be heard giving instructions to his henchmen for attacks in Pakistan.

The other voices in the audio call were identified as local commanders Ahmad Hussain Mehsud alias Ghat Haji, and Saqib Gandapur.

The conversation revolves around the TTP chief's orders on how to inflame the security situation in the country. In that conversation, he can be heard outlining two main methods for disrupting peace and order in Pakistan.

Suggesting that one method is to target government schools or hospitals with bombings, the TTP leader orders his men to carry out attacks on one or two schools or hospitals without claiming responsibility for them.

Noor could also be heard hashing out a second method, which he says involves destroying the homes of police officers and soldiers.

He instructs his lieutenants to keep the conversation confidential and ensure that no one else is aware of the plan and stresses that if questioned, he should not be linked to the operations and nothing should be traced back to TTP.

Ahmad Hussain, while affirming the TTP chief’s deadly plans, can be heard telling Gandapur to target the homes of high-ranking police, army, and FC officials with bombs and to either close down or blow up schools secretly — without taking credit for the attacks.

The leaked telephone call effectively reaffirmed Islamabad's stance wherein it had time again called on Kabul to prevent its land from being used by TTP and other terrorist organisations against Pakistan.

The legal action against the terrorists, the sources added, will be taken in light of the report of the phone call's forensic analysis.

Earlier this week, at least eight Pakistan Army soldiers had embraced martyrdom as security forces effectively thwarted a terrorist attack at Bannu Cantonment killing all 10 militants.

The terrorists attacked the Bannu Cantonment in the early hours of July 15 but their attempt to enter the facility was effectively thwarted by the security forces personnel, resultantly the militants rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the cantonment, the military’s media wing had said.

Following the incident, Pakistan summoned the deputy head of mission of the embassy of Afghanistan in Islamabad to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to deliver a strong demarche.

In a statement, the FO said the terrorist attack was carried out by the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group based in Afghanistan and urged Kabul to fully investigate and take immediate, robust and effective action against the perpetrators of the Bannu attack and to prevent the recurrence of such attacks using the territory of Afghanistan.

 

Pakistan’s opposition calls for judicial commission to probe deadly shooting at Bannu rally​


Pakistan’s six-party opposition alliance on Saturday demanded a judicial commission to probe the shooting incident that led to the killing of people at a rally in Bannu city after the provincial administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) announced the formation of an inquiry commission for “transparent investigation” into the incident.

At least two persons were killed and more than 20 injured after gunfire triggered a stampede at the procession attended by tens of thousands of people in the northwestern city on Friday. The demonstration was held at a time when KP, which borders Afghanistan, has witnessed a surge in attacks on security forces, government officials and anti-polio vaccination teams in recent weeks.

The shocking increase in daily attacks led the residents of the area to demand peace only a few days after 10 soldiers were killed by militants in Bannu’s cantonment area.

The opposition alliance, Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (or the Movement to Protect the Constitution of Pakistan), held a meeting to discuss the political situation in the country, during which participants also focused on the recent shooting incident.

“They demanded that an independent judicial commission should be constituted immediately to probe into the deaths and injuries caused by the firings on Bannu Aman [Peace] March,” said a statement released after the meeting attended by senior members of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and its allies.

“The participants stressed the need that a judicial commission should be headed by a serving judge, which should be free from any external pressure, to ensure a transparent investigation into the violent incidents in Bannu,” it continued.

The statement added the meeting criticized senior police and provincial administration officials, saying they had “miserably failed in restoring peace in the province” and must be dismissed.

Earlier, KP government’s spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif said Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur was personally monitoring the situation in the city. Both officials belong to Khan’s PTI party, which formed the provincial administration after the February 8 general elections.

“The chief minister has announced the formation of a commission for a transparent investigation into the incident,” Saif said in a lengthy statement posted on his social media account. “The commission will conduct an impartial investigation and present a report, which will be made public. The role of those responsible will be determined and legal action will be taken.”

Source: Arab News
 

Six killed in suspected militant violence in Pakistan, citizens hold protest rallies demanding peace​


Four people, including a policeman and a paramilitary soldier, were killed in suspected militant attacks in Pakistan’s northwestern and southwestern regions on Friday, officials said, while at least two others perished in shooting at a protest rally in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province against the worsening security environment.

KP, which borders Afghanistan, has seen a surge in attacks on security forces, government officials and anti-polio vaccination teams in recent weeks. Attacks have also spiked in the southwestern Balochistan province, home to a decades-long insurgency by separatist fighters.

The shocking surge in daily attacks has unleashed protests in KP’s Bannu and Tank districts, with citizens demanding authorities ensure peace in the two districts that have been worst-hit by the militancy surge. In Bannu in particular, ten soldiers were killed earlier this week when militants attacked a military cantonment.

In a fresh attack on Friday, two people were killed and four others wounded when a bomb targeted a militant commander, Ain Ullah, associated with Mullah Nazeer group, a Pakistan Taliban (TTP) faction, in the South Waziristan tribal district, according to police.

“A bomb exploded near Maulvi Noor Muhammad mosque this morning, leaving two persons dead and four injured,” Fareed Wazir, a police officer in the town of Wana, told Arab News. “It was a planted bomb. Police are investigating the matter to identify the perpetrators.”

Separately, a policeman was killed and two others injured when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a police check-post in the Bhai area of KP’s Mardan district, rescue officials said.

Meanwhile, unidentified gunmen opened fire at a protest rally in Bannu, killing at least two protesters and injuring another two dozen, according to provincial officials.

“At least two persons died and 24 were wounded when all of a sudden firing started during a peace rally by hundreds and thousands of people in Bannu,” KP Public Health Engineering Minister Pakhtoon Yar Khan told Arab News, saying he had “narrowly escaped” the gunfire.

Khan said the recent unrest in Bannu had disrupted businesses, educational institutions and public life, and residents wanted peace “at any cost.”

Arab News tried reaching out to the Bannu district police officer, Ziauddin Ahmad, to get more details of the incident, but he did not return phone calls.

Later, commenting on the development the provincial administration’s spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif said in a video statement people had the right to hold peaceful protests, though no one would be allowed to take law into their hands.

He said Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had taken notice of the situation in Bannu and asked the commissioner and deputy commissioner of the region to hold negotiations with protesters.

“After negotiations with the elders, the situation is under control,” the KP spokesperson said. “The chief minister has also announced a package for those killed and injured in the incident.”

He added the incident would be investigated and those responsible for the violence would be punished.

In Tank, hundreds of people continued a two-day long sit-in over the fragile security situation in the district.

Pattu Bhittani, one of the organizers of the protest, told Arab News the residents were “fed up” of frequent militant attacks and living in a state of insecurity.

“Till the acceptance of our demands, which is restoration of peace, the entire district will boycott the polio campaign and hoist black flags on their vehicles and homes as a token of protest,” Bhittani said, warning that the protesters would also block highways if their demands were not met.

Islamabad blames the recent surge in attacks, including the July 15 attack on the army cantonment in Bannu, on militants mainly from the TTP operating out of neighboring Afghanistan. Kabul denies the allegations and says rising violence in Pakistan is a domestic issue for Islamabad.

Pakistani forces were able to effectively dismantle the TTP in a string of military operations in KP’s tribal districts from 2014 onwards, driving most of the fighters into neighboring Afghanistan, where Islamabad says they have regrouped.

Islamabad says TTP leaders have taken refuge in Afghanistan and now run camps there to train insurgents to launch attacks inside Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban rulers say Kabul does not allow militants to operate on its territory.

Govt blames PTI for violence in Bannu peace march​


Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Atta Tarar, on Sunday accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of orchestrating violence during the Bannu peace march.

“PTI has a history of violent politics. They seek casualties to blame on security forces, acting more like a terrorist organisation than a political party. I call them TTP-PTI,” Tarar said during a press conference in Islamabad.

The minister stated that creating instability in the country is part of PTI's manifesto, as evidenced by the attack on the Pakistan Television building in Islamabad by its workers in 2014.

He remarked that the party has consistently promoted the politics of violence and used abusive language against political opponents.

Attaullah Tarar claimed that PTI always seeks to exploit dead bodies to propagate against the government, police, and security forces. He alleged that the incidents of May 9 last year were orchestrated in search of 50 to 60 dead bodies, with the aim of derailing the entire system and spreading anarchy in the country.

“PTI elements infiltrated the traders' peace march in Bannu, instigating chaos and firing near the attack site. One person died, and 22 were injured. Thankfully, a major disaster was averted.”

Responding to reports about former prime minister Imran Khan's imprisonment conditions, Tarar denied he was being held in a death row cell.

“The Sharif family endured harsh conditions, but Imran Khan enjoys presidential suites at Adiala Jail, with access to a gym, kitchen, walking gallery, and luxurious meals.”

The minister also mentioned ongoing investigations into the attack on the Pakistani consulate in Germany.

“We are identifying involved Pakistani citizens through video footage. Their ID cards and passports will be revoked, and severe action will follow. If political elements are involved, Imran Khan won’t be able to save them.”

 
Back
Top