Rawalpindi, July 17, 2026: Pakistan’s security forces have killed 24 militants during extensive intelligence-based operations launched in Bannu district and adjoining areas following a recent surge in terrorist attacks, the military’s media wing said on Friday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operations were initiated in the wake of increased terrorist activity, including a vehicle-borne suicide bombing in Bannu district that targeted law enforcement agencies and innocent civilians. The military alleged that the attacks were carried out by the Indian proxy group “Fitna Al-Khwarij.”
ISPR said security forces, in coordination with law enforcement agencies, launched large-scale joint intelligence-based operations to track down those responsible for the attacks and dismantle their support infrastructure.
During the past 24 hours, following intense exchanges of fire in Bannu district and adjoining areas, security forces killed 24 militants belonging to the group, the statement said.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain militants, who, according to the military, had been actively involved in numerous terrorist activities and the killing of innocent civilians.
The military said operations in the area would continue until all those involved in what it described as the “heinous and cowardly” attacks are brought to justice.
Reaffirming its commitment to eliminating terrorism, ISPR said Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies would continue their nationwide counterterrorism campaign under Azm-e-Istehkam, the strategy approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan, to eradicate what it described as foreign-sponsored and foreign-backed terrorism from the country.
