On September 10-11, 2025, Pakistani security forces conducted multiple intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), resulting in the elimination of 19 Khawarij (a term used for terrorists, particularly those affiliated with banned groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)). These operations targeted militants described as Indian-sponsored terrorists who were involved in destabilizing activities across the region. Below is a detailed summary of the events:

🔍 1. Operations and Outcomes

Mohmand District: In the general area of Guluno, security forces conducted an IBO based on intelligence inputs. After an intense exchange of fire, 14 Khawarij were killed.
North Waziristan District: In the Datta Khel area, forces neutralized 4 additional Khawarij during another intelligence-based operation.
Bannu District: One more Khawarij was killed in a separate engagement.

🛡️ 2. Weapons and Sanitization

Arms, ammunition, and explosives were recovered from the killed militants, who were actively involved in terrorist activities against security forces and civilians.
Sanitization operations are ongoing in these areas to eliminate any remaining threats, underscoring the determination of Pakistan’s security forces to eradicate terrorism.

🇮🇳 3. Alleged Indian Involvement

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) explicitly accused India of sponsoring these terrorists, referring to them as “Indian-sponsored khawarij” or “Fitna-ul-Hindustan” (a term denoting Indian-backed destabilization efforts). This aligns with Pakistan’s longstanding claims of Indian interference in its internal security affairs.

⚔️ 4. Broader Context of Terrorism in KP

KP and Balochistan have experienced a significant surge in terrorist violence since the TTP ended its ceasefire with the Pakistani government in November 2022.
Recent months have seen intensified operations, with security forces targeting militant hideouts across various districts, including Lakki Marwat, Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, and South Waziristan.
Pakistan ranks second globally in the Global Terrorism Index 2025, with over 1,000 fatalities attributed to terrorist attacks in the past year.

🎖️ 5. Sacrifices and National Resolve

While these operations were successful, previous engagements have seen martyrdom of soldiers (e.g., Lance Naik Usman Mohmand and Sepoy Imran Khan in North Waziristan in April 2025). Such sacrifices reinforce the resolve of security forces and the nation to combat terrorism.
Senior officials, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, have praised security forces for their efforts and reiterated the commitment to eliminate terrorism.

💎 Conclusion

The elimination of 19 Khawarij in KP highlights the ongoing efforts of Pakistani security forces to counter terrorism, particularly groups alleged to be backed by India. The operations reflect a broader strategy to sanitize restive regions and ensure long-term stability. However, the persistence of attacks (e.g., the recent assault on the FC Headquarters in Bannu) underscores the challenges that remain.