Security forces in Pakistan have killed 13 terrorists in five separate operations across the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, according to the military’s media affairs wing.
Recent Operations and Allegations
The operations, conducted on March 6-7, targeted individuals identified as khawarij belonging to Indian proxy Fitna Al Khawarij. The military stated that weapons and ammunition were recovered from those killed, who were reportedly involved in numerous terrorist activities.
Five terrorists were killed in the Bajaur district, while three were “successfully neutralised” in Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan districts. An additional five were killed in engagements in Khyber and South Waziristan districts. Sanitisation operations are underway to locate any remaining individuals.
President Asif Ali Zardari commended the security forces for their actions, stating that operations against “Indian-backed Fitna al Khawarij terrorists were significant for securing peace in the country”.
Rising Violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
These recent operations occur against a backdrop of increasing violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to the Annual Security Report 2025 from the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), fatalities in the province rose from 1,620 in 2024 to 2,331 in 2025 – an increase of 711 deaths and a 44% year-on-year surge.
The military affirmed its commitment to defending Pakistan’s frontiers and stated that the counter-terrorism campaign, under the vision ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’, will continue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fitna Al Khawarij?
Fitna Al Khawarij is a term used by the state to describe terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Where did these operations take place?
The operations took place in five separate engagements across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, specifically in the districts of Bajaur, Bannu, Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber and South Waziristan.
What was the stated purpose of these operations?
The stated purpose of these operations was to counter terrorism and eliminate individuals identified as belonging to Indian proxy Fitna Al Khawarij, as part of a broader counter-terrorism campaign.
Given the recent surge in violence and ongoing operations, what steps might Pakistan take to further address the security challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and along its borders?
