In a major security operation, Pakistani forces have killed at least 10 terrorists in Khyber district, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The operation was carried out on the night of February 23-24, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The operation, an intelligence-based offensive, focused on a location used by militants in the region. The ISPR’s statement revealed that the forces engaged the terrorist group known as the “khwarij.” The result was the death of 10 militants, who were “sent to hell” during the course of the operation. The military has also launched a sanitisation operation in the area to eliminate any remaining threats.
“The security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country,” the ISPR emphasized in its statement.
The attack comes at a time when the nation is grappling with a significant increase in terrorist activity. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), terror attacks in January 2025 surged by 42% compared to the previous month. The think tank’s data indicated that Pakistan saw 74 militant attacks nationwide, resulting in 91 deaths. These included 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 people were injured in these attacks, including 53 members of the security forces, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the region where the latest operation took place, remains the hardest-hit area. In January, the settled districts of KP experienced 27 militant attacks, resulting in 19 deaths, including 11 security personnel and six civilians. The tribal areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, previously known as FATA, saw 19 attacks that left 46 people dead, including 13 security forces, eight civilians, and 25 militants.
Balochistan, another province, also saw a rise in militant violence. At least 24 attacks occurred in Balochistan, causing 26 deaths, which included 11 security personnel, six civilians, and nine militants.
This uptick in terrorist activity has highlighted the growing security challenges across the country. The operations in Khyber district and other regions are part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to eradicate terrorism and maintain peace within its borders. The military remains steadfast in its commitment to eliminating terrorist groups and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
