Pakistani Forces Kill 35 Militants, 12 Soldiers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Raids

Pakistani security forces conducted two major operations in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, killing 35 militants affiliated with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Indian-sponsored groups, while suffering the loss of 12 soldiers. The raids took place in Bajaur and South Waziristan districts, with intense firefights resulting in significant casualties on both sides, and the recovery of weapons and ammunition from militants. The Pakistani military accused Indian support and involvement of Afghan nationals in these terrorist acts, urging the Taliban government in Kabul to prevent the use of Afghan territory for attacks against Pakistan. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif praised the bravery and professionalism of the armed forces, honoring the fallen soldiers and reaffirming national unity against terrorism and extremism. These operations underscore Pakistan's ongoing struggle to counter the resurgence of militant groups emboldened by the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, which has strained relations between the two neighbors. Pakistan continues sanitization efforts to eliminate remaining militants and emphasizes its commitment to eradicating terrorism supported by foreign proxies.