Pakistan's security forces have eliminated 29 militants in a series of intelligence-based counterterrorism operations along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar announced late Sunday night. The operations included calibrated strikes against terrorist hideouts, killing militants belonging to Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Fitna al Khwarij.
Operations Launched After Recent Attacks
In a statement shared on social media, Tarar said the operations were launched in response to multiple terrorist attacks targeting innocent civilians in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and a Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) camp in Karachi. According to the minister, a well-planned intelligence-led ground operation was conducted by security forces along the border, followed by precision strikes against terrorist hideouts and safe havens in the border region. The coordinated action resulted in the elimination of 29 militants.
Details of Bajaur Operation
Providing details of one of the operations, the minister said that on June 28, 2026, security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. During the operation, security forces killed high-value militant commander Khan Farosh alias Zabal, along with three other militants belonging to the India-backed Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. Several other militants were reportedly injured during the engagement.
Government's Commitment to Peace
Tarar reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in the region but emphasized that the country would not compromise on the safety and security of its citizens. “The protection of our people remains our foremost priority,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies would continue their nationwide counterterrorism campaign under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” strategy approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan. The information minister reaffirmed the government’s resolve to continue operations until the threat posed by foreign-sponsored terrorism is completely eradicated from the country.
Context and Background
The operations come amid heightened security concerns following a spate of attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Karachi. The government has consistently blamed external actors, particularly India, for supporting militant groups like Jamaat-ul-Ahrar to destabilize Pakistan. The Azm-e-Istehkam strategy, part of the National Action Plan, aims to eliminate all forms of terrorism through coordinated military and intelligence efforts.
