ISLAMABAD: Pakistan conducted an intelligence-based ground operation and airstrikes against militant hideouts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the border region with Afghanistan, the Ministry of Information said on Monday.
The ministry said security forces carried out an operation in Kohat and Hangu on September 20, killing nine militants and injuring several others. The operation was followed by airstrikes targeting what the ministry described as terrorist camps and safe havens.
According to the ministry, three targets in the Afghanistan border region were destroyed, including a suicide bomber training centre. It said 28 militants were killed and weapons and ammunition stored at the sites were destroyed.
What Did the Ministry Say About the Strikes?
The Ministry of Information said the strikes were based on credible intelligence and targeted militant organisations responsible for recent attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
It said security forces took measures to ensure precision and prevent collateral damage, while reiterating the government’s stated priority of protecting Pakistani citizens and maintaining regional peace and stability.
What Led to the Military Operations?
The operations followed a series of deadly attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
On September 18, explosions at Kohat Police Lines killed at least 22 people, including 16 police personnel, and injured more than 100 others, according to authorities.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) later reported that security forces killed five militants during an operation near Kalat and rescued 23 hostages. It also reported the deaths of eight militants and six army personnel during an exchange of fire in Hangu.
The Ministry of Information said Pakistan remained concerned about militant activity emanating from Afghanistan and reiterated its resolve to protect national security while pursuing regional peace and stability.