Tensions between the Pakistani army and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) continue to escalate. In the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, clashes between the army and the proscribed TTP resulted in the deaths of at least 12 soldiers and 35 terrorists across two separate operations. This information was released by the military on Saturday, September 13th.
According to the Pakistan Army, at least 12 soldiers were killed during two separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past four days. During these operations, the Pakistan Army also claimed to have killed 35 terrorists associated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban.
The military’s media branch, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), reported on Saturday that these operations were conducted in the Bajaur and South Waziristan districts. Based on intelligence, an operation was launched in Bajaur, leading to an encounter between security forces and terrorists. During this clash, 22 TTP terrorists were killed. Additionally, another operation in South Waziristan resulted in the deaths of 13 terrorists, while 12 Pakistani soldiers were martyred in the exchange of fire.
Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorists, according to ISPR. The ISPR has claimed that Afghan nationals were involved in these terrorist activities. The ISPR expressed hope that the Taliban government in Afghanistan would fulfill its responsibilities and prevent its territory from being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan.
Search operations are ongoing to eliminate other terrorists in the area. Since November 2022, when the TTP ended a ceasefire agreement with the government and vowed to increase attacks, there has been a rise in terrorism in Pakistan. Terrorist activities have intensified in the border regions since the Taliban’s return to Afghanistan in 2021. This year alone, 460 people have been killed in attacks by armed groups in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces, with a majority being security forces personnel.