Four Soldiers Martyred, 15 Militants Eliminated in KP Operations: ISPR
Security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) conducted two intelligence-based operations (IBOs) on Saturday, resulting in the martyrdom of four soldiers and the elimination of 15 terrorists, according to a statement from the military’s media wing.
Pakistan has faced a surge in militant attacks, particularly in KP and Balochistan, following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement between the government and the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in 2022.
Operations in Dera Ismail Khan and North Waziristan
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the first operation was carried out in the Hathala area of Dera Ismail Khan based on intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists. Security forces engaged the militants in combat, neutralizing nine of them, including key commanders Farman alias Saqib, Kharji Amanullah alias Toori, Kharji Saeed alias Liaqat, and Kharji Bilal. These individuals were wanted for their involvement in multiple terror activities, the statement noted.
In a second operation in Miranshah, North Waziristan, security forces successfully eliminated six more terrorists. However, during the intense exchange of fire, Lieutenant Muhammad Hassaan Arshad (21), who led his team with exceptional bravery, embraced martyrdom alongside three other soldiers:
- Naib Subedar Muhammad Bilal (39) – Dera Ismail Khan
- Sepoy Farhat Ullah (27) – Lakki Marwat
- Sepoy Himat Khan (29) – Mohmand District
The military emphasized that sanitization operations are ongoing to ensure the complete elimination of any remaining threats in the area.
“The Pakistan Army remains committed to eradicating terrorism, and the sacrifices of our soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” the ISPR statement read.
National Leaders Pay Tribute
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the security forces for their successful operations, expressing deep appreciation for the martyred personnel.
President Zardari, in an official statement, reaffirmed the nation’s gratitude for its fallen heroes, emphasizing the unwavering commitment to defeating terrorism. He assured that the sacrifices of the martyrs would not be forgotten.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also extended his condolences and praised the military’s relentless efforts to protect the country. “The entire nation is proud of our martyrs and their families,” he stated. “We will continue our fight against terrorism until it is fully eradicated. The enemies of our peace will not succeed.”
Rising Terror Threat and Counter-Terrorism Efforts
Pakistan’s security forces have intensified operations amid escalating militant attacks. Earlier this week, 13 militants were killed in five separate operations across KP.
According to a report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), 2024 was the deadliest year for Pakistan’s civil and military security forces in a decade. At least 444 terrorist attacks resulted in 685 security personnel casualties.
The ISPR Director General also revealed that the military conducted 59,775 counter-terrorism operations in 2024, during which 925 terrorists were neutralized and 383 officers and soldiers lost their lives in the line of duty.
Pakistan’s security forces remain resolute in their mission to eliminate terrorism and ensure lasting peace in the country.
