The truce, mediated by Doha and Turkey, aims to end cross-border tensions and establish a permanent mechanism for peace
News Desk
DOHA: In a major cross-border operation, Pakistani security forces reported killing more than 70 militants in targeted strikes on camps in Afghanistan’s Paktika province, marking a significant escalation in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts along the volatile border. The strikes, carried out under the cover of night on 17 October, were described by officials as “effective operations” that dismantled key hideouts used by the Gul Bahadur faction, an allied group of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
The timing of the offensive followed a devastating attack earlier the same day in Khadi, North Waziristan, attributed to the same militant faction. A vehicle-borne explosion claimed the lives of three women, two children, and a soldier, highlighting the continuing human toll of cross-border militancy. Security sources indicated that the retaliatory strikes delivered a severe blow to the group’s leadership, targeting senior commanders and operational hubs.
Among the reported casualties was Farman, a prominent commander also known by the nom de guerre Al-Karama. Other senior figures allegedly killed included Sadiqullah Dawar, Ghazi Madakhil, and Muqarab. In a particularly significant development, Gulaab, infamously known as Dewana and considered the faction’s ringleader, was reported killed. The strikes also claimed Fazal Rahman, described as a close relative of Gul Bahadur, the overarching leader of the group.
Officials emphasized the strategic impact of the strikes, noting that the elimination of top commanders would disrupt the faction’s operational capabilities and limit its ability to plan attacks in Pakistan. The language used by authorities reinforced a strong condemnation of the militants, referring to TTP and its allied factions such as the Gul Bahadur group as “khawarij,” a historically charged term meaning “renegades” or “outsiders,” underscoring the perceived ideological and operational threat they pose.
Security analysts noted that while such cross-border operations can degrade militant networks in the short term, persistent threats from insurgent factions continue to challenge stability in border regions. The operation highlights the Pakistani military’s ongoing commitment to countering terrorism and safeguarding civilians in areas that have long endured violence and instability.
The strikes, according to official statements, were intended to send a clear message to militant groups that cross-border attacks on Pakistani territory would not go unanswered, reinforcing the resolve of security forces to maintain pressure on insurgent networks.
