Pakistan military reports it killed 74 ‘terrorists’ during raids
Pakistan's army has reported killing 74 armed fighters in multiple raids along the country's borders with Afghanistan, continuing attacks that have caused tension between the neighboring nations.
Thirty-one 'terrorists' were killed in southwestern Balochistan province since November 3, with multiple weapons, explosives and ammunition recovered, according to the military's news division. Another 35 fighters were killed in the past two days during separate raids on Mir Ali, while eight were killed in Orakzai.
Regional tensions
Both Mir Ali and Orakzai are in northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the Pakistan Taliban and several other armed groups are based. Islamabad accuses India and Afghanistan of backing these groups, though Delhi and Kabul deny involvement.
Border conflict
The army identified the fighters as 'Khawarij', a term it uses for fighters backed by Afghanistan, including the TTP. Although separate, the TTP is allied with the Afghan Taliban, which took power in 2021. Pakistani authorities believe the group operates from Afghanistan and is responsible for increased attacks on Pakistani territory.
The issue has strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul and led to armed confrontations resulting in civilian deaths. At least 11 policemen were killed and another 12 wounded after alleged TTP fighters ambushed a convoy in Kohat district on Thursday.
Related
