Pakistani forces neutralize nine terrorists in North Waziristan operations

At least nine Pakistani Taliban (TTP) militants were killed in two separate operations by security forces in North Waziristan – a northwestern tribal district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the military said Sunday.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, detailed the operations in a statement. "On 11 January 2025, nine Khawarij [TTP terrorists] were sent to hell in two separate engagements in North Waziristan District," it said.

The first operation was conducted in Dosalli based on intelligence reports about the presence of TTP militants. "During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the Khawarij location and resultantly, six Khawarij were sent to hell, while two were apprehended," the statement said.

In another operation in Esham, security forces exchanged intense fire with the militants. "Three Khawarij were neutralized, while two were injured," ISPR added.

Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the militants, who were reportedly involved in attacks on security forces and civilians. Following the operations, troops began a sanitization campaign to eliminate any remaining threats in the area.

"Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country," ISPR stated.

PM lauds successful offensives

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the officers and personnel of Pakistan's security forces for their professionalism and success in neutralizing nine militants of the banned TTP.

“The nation salutes the bravery and professional capabilities of our security forces, who continue to safeguard the country at great personal risk,” the Prime Minister said in a statement issued by the PM Office.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to continue the fight against terrorism until the complete eradication of this menace. “We will not rest until terrorism is entirely eliminated from the country,” he said.

Prime Minister Sharif also highlighted the unity between the armed forces and the people of Pakistan in this critical battle. “In this war against terrorism, I, along with the entire nation, stand shoulder to shoulder with our brave security forces,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister lauded the sacrifices of the security forces, saying, “Our officers and personnel risk their lives every day to ensure the safety and security of the nation. Their dedication is unparalleled, and the entire Pakistani nation pays tribute to their valor.”

Surge in terrorism

These operations come amid a surge in terrorist incidents across Pakistan. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended a fragile ceasefire with the government in late 2022, escalating violence.

According to the interior ministry, 948 of the 1,566 terrorist incidents reported in the past 10 months occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in 583 deaths. These casualties represent nearly two-thirds of the nationwide toll.

In July, the government officially designated the TTP as "Fitna al-Khawarij" and mandated the use of the term Khawarij (outcasts) to describe the group targeting Pakistan.

Ongoing threats

Despite sustained military offensives, militant groups like the TTP continue to pose a significant threat to Pakistan’s stability. The group, known for orchestrating attacks on security forces and civilians, has escalated its activities in the northwest, particularly in tribal regions bordering Afghanistan.

The military’s actions underscore its commitment to eradicating terrorism and maintaining peace in the region.