Pakistan’s Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, has provided a detailed update on the substantial damage inflicted on Afghan Taliban forces since the launch of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq. This military campaign was initiated following a sharp escalation in cross-border hostilities along the Durand Line, the porous border separating Pakistan and Afghanistan. The operation aims to dismantle militant infrastructure and curb the rising threat posed by Taliban elements operating from Afghan soil.
In an early morning post on the social media platform X, Minister Tarar revealed that Pakistani armed forces have successfully eliminated 331 Taliban fighters and injured more than 500 others since the offensive began. He further highlighted the destruction of 104 Taliban posts and the capture of 22 strategic militant positions. The campaign has also resulted in the disabling of 163 tanks and various armored vehicles, significantly weakening the Taliban’s operational capabilities in the region.
These military actions have included targeted airstrikes on 37 locations deep inside Afghanistan, focusing on dismantling the Taliban’s command centers, weapon depots, and training camps. The Pakistani military’s intensified efforts underscore Islamabad’s resolve to counter militancy that has increasingly spilled over into its territory, threatening national security and regional stability.
The surge in military operations follows a series of attacks on Pakistani border posts, which Islamabad has consistently described as unprovoked acts of aggression by militants based in Afghanistan. Pakistani officials maintain that these strikes are necessary to neutralize threats emanating from militant groups aligned with the Afghan Taliban regime, which continues to exert control over large parts of Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the district administration of Bannu has declared a state of emergency in response to credible intelligence about potential terrorist activities within the city. Authorities have imposed restrictions on the movement of certain types of vehicles to prevent any sabotage attempts and to enhance public safety. Residents have been urged to stay alert and follow official instructions carefully during this tense period.
In a precautionary measure, the District Education Officer, Abdul Malik, announced the closure of all government schools in Bannu for one day to protect students and staff from any possible threats. Furthermore, the District Bar Association has called for a complete strike, signaling widespread concern among local professionals about the deteriorating security situation. The strike notification was issued by General Secretary Usman Sikandari, who emphasized the need for collective vigilance.
Security forces in Bannu have been placed on high alert, with police stations instructed to increase patrols and strengthen security protocols. Key roads near sensitive military installations, including Bannu Cantonment and Police Lines, have been temporarily closed to minimize risks. District Police Officer Yasir Afridi confirmed that at least six planned terrorist attacks were successfully foiled at multiple checkpoints across the city, including Kashoo Bridge, Kotka Muhammad Khan Domel, and Kinger. Fortunately, no significant casualties were reported in these incidents, reflecting the effectiveness of timely intelligence and rapid response by law enforcement agencies.
These developments highlight the ongoing challenges Pakistan faces in securing its western border and combating militancy that threatens both local communities and national security. The government’s proactive measures, including military operations and heightened security protocols in vulnerable districts like Bannu, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to addressing these complex threats.
