Pakistan carried out targeted strikes on seven terrorist camps near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border after a series of recent suicide attacks inside the country .The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said on Sunday.
According to the government statement, the camps belonged to militants linked with the banned Tehreek i Taliban Pakistan and the Islamic State Khorasan Province. The operation was conducted after suicide bombings in Islamabad, Bajaur and Bannu including an attack during the holy month of Ramadan.
Officials said Pakistan has clear evidence that the attacks were planned and directed by militant leaders operating from Afghan territory. The strikes were described as intelligence based and selective actions aimed at preventing further attacks and protecting civilian lives.
The government stated that Pakistan has repeatedly asked the Afghan authorities to stop terrorist groups from using Afghan soil against Pakistan but no effective action was taken. Islamabad has urged the interim Afghan government to fulfil its international commitments and prevent cross border terrorism.
Relations between the two countries have remained tense since the return of the Afghan Taliban government in 2021. Pakistan says militant activity has increased along the border during this period.
The latest escalation follows a suicide attack in Bajaur on February 16 where militants targeted a security post using an explosives filled vehicle. Eleven Pakistani soldiers were martyred and several civilians were injured when nearby buildings were damaged. The banned TTP claimed responsibility for the attack.
Another suicide attack in Bannu on February 21 resulted in the martyrdom of a lieutenant colonel and a soldier during an intelligence operation.
The military said terrorist groups were misusing Afghan territory and warned that operations would continue against those responsible regardless of location. Pakistan also called on the international community to support efforts aimed at ensuring regional peace and security.
Officials stressed that while Pakistan seeks stability in the region, the safety of its citizens remains the country’s highest priority.
Asian Burg News