In a major counterterrorism operation, 11 Pakistani soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel and a major, were martyred in Orakzai district. The military’s media wing, ISPR, said the operation was based on intelligence reports of Indian-backed militants. Security forces engaged terrorists linked to an Indian proxy group called Fitna al Khwarij. The brave soldiers were leading the charge when they came under heavy fire. Despite the losses, security forces eliminated 19 terrorists during the mission.
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The martyred officers include 39-year-old Lt Col Junaid Arif, who led the operation, and 33-year-old Major Tayyab Rahat. Other fallen heroes include Naib Subedar Azam Gul, Naik Adil Hussain, and Naik Gul Ameer. Lance Naiks Sher Khan, Talish Faraz, and Irshad Hussain also lost their lives. The young sepoys—Tufail Khan, Aqib Ali, and Muhammad Zahid—were martyred in the line of duty. Their sacrifice highlights the ongoing struggle against terrorism in the region.
Following the operation, a large-scale sanitization effort began to clear the area of remaining threats. ISPR stated that more operations are likely in the coming days. The security forces remain alert to neutralize any remaining militants. This action is part of Pakistan’s ongoing campaign to crush terrorist networks. Authorities believe these terrorists were acting under foreign influence, mainly from across the eastern border.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the soldiers. He praised their courage and vowed their sacrifice would not be wasted. He said Pakistan is committed to eradicating terrorism completely. The premier also emphasized that Pakistan’s enemies will never succeed in harming its unity. His statement showed strong support for the armed forces.
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Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also paid tribute to the martyred soldiers. He called their sacrifice a symbol of national pride. He promised that the fight against terrorism would continue with greater resolve. Pakistan has faced increasing attacks, especially in KP and Balochistan. The violence spiked after the TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in 2022.