In a decisive operation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, security forces have thwarted an infiltration attempt by terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dir district. According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), three militants were detected moving across the border on Sunday night.
“The infiltrators were surrounded, engaged effectively, and following a fierce exchange of fire, all three terrorists were eliminated,” stated the ISPR.
Pakistan has consistently urged the interim Afghan government to enforce strict border management to prevent terrorists from using Afghan soil to launch attacks. The ISPR emphasized that Afghanistan must fulfill its obligations to deny sanctuary to terrorists targeting Pakistan.
“The security forces remain resolute in securing our borders and eradicating terrorism from our land,” the ISPR reaffirmed.
Earlier in May, Pakistan’s military reported the killing of 29 terrorists in operations along the Pak-Afghan border amidst escalating terrorist activities originating from Afghan territory.
The ISPR highlighted an increase in attempts by Afghan-based militants to breach the border and carry out attacks on Pakistani soil. Just last week, security forces successfully foiled an attempt by 10 terrorists to breach Bannu Cantonment, resulting in the militants resorting to a suicide attack.
The Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, operating from Afghanistan, was attributed to the attack, underscoring ongoing security challenges exacerbated by cross-border terrorism.
Following the Bannu incident, Pakistan summoned the Afghan deputy head of mission in Islamabad, urging swift and robust action against the attackers and prevention of future incidents.
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated, primarily due to threats posed by banned militant groups like the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and frequent border skirmishes. Recent remarks by Pakistani officials regarding potential military actions against TTP hideouts in Afghanistan have further strained relations.
Responding to leaked audio purportedly from the TTP chief, Pakistan’s military vowed to pursue actions to ensure national stability and security.
Efforts to ease tensions include recent diplomatic meetings between Afghan interim government leaders and Pakistani officials in Doha. The Taliban delegation expressed optimism about fostering positive relations with Pakistan during these discussions.
The situation remains fluid as both countries navigate complex security challenges along their shared border.
