RAWALPINDI:
Four Pakistani soldiers lost their lives while security forces eliminated 15 militants in two separate operations in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), announced on Saturday.
K-P remains a hotspot for security threats due to its proximity to Afghanistan, where militant groups allegedly find sanctuary and plan attacks on Pakistani soil.
“On February 15, 2025, security forces successfully neutralized 15 militants in two different operations across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa,” the ISPR stated.
The military often refers to these militants as “khwarij,” a term used for extremist groups that found refuge in Afghanistan following Pakistan’s 2014 military offensive, Operation Zarb-e-Azb, which targeted terrorist hideouts in the former tribal regions.
Dera Ismail Khan Operation
One of the intelligence-based operations (IBOs) took place in the Hathala area of Dera Ismail Khan district, where security personnel engaged terrorists in a fierce battle. As a result, nine militants, including high-profile commanders identified as Farman alias Saqib, Amanullah alias Toori, Saeed alias Liaqat, and Bilal, were killed.
According to ISPR, these militants were responsible for multiple attacks and were on the most-wanted list of law enforcement agencies.
Miranshah Operation
A second operation was carried out in Miranshah, North Waziristan, where security forces eliminated six more militants.
During this intense exchange of gunfire, Lieutenant Muhammad Hassaan Ashraf (21) from Lahore courageously led his troops but was martyred alongside three soldiers:
- Naib Subedar Muhammad Bilal (39), from Dera Ismail Khan
- Sepoy Farhatullah (27), from Lakki Marwat
- Sepoy Himat Khan (29), from Mohmand district
Following the operation, the military launched search and clearance efforts to ensure the region was free of any remaining threats.
“The Pakistan Army remains committed to eradicating terrorism, and such sacrifices further reinforce our resolve to safeguard the nation,” the statement concluded.
Funeral Prayers and Tributes
The funeral of Lt. Muhammad Hassaan Ashraf was held at Lahore Garrison, attended by prominent figures including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, senior military officials, and the martyr’s family.
Both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the security forces for their unwavering efforts in combating terrorism and paid homage to the fallen soldiers.
President Zardari assured that the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes would never be forgotten, emphasizing Pakistan’s strong determination to eliminate terrorism completely.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his statement, expressed deep appreciation for the courage and dedication of the security forces. “The entire nation stands with the families of our brave martyrs. We will never allow terrorists to succeed in their malicious agendas,” he asserted.
He further acknowledged the tireless efforts of Pakistan’s armed forces, emphasizing their commitment to national defense and security.
“The nation salutes the courage and sacrifice of our forces who continue to protect our motherland with unwavering resolve,” the prime minister concluded.
