Pakistani forces carried out surprise attacks inside Afghanistan and along the border areas on Saturday night (February 21), targeting hideouts and camps of the militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The development was reported by The Guardian.
Pakistan did not disclose the exact locations inside Afghanistan where the strikes were conducted. Afghan authorities also did not immediately comment on the incidents.
According to the report, the strikes came in response to a recent wave of attacks in different parts of Pakistan.
In a post on X, Pakistan’s Information Minister Ataullah Tarar said intelligence-based operations were carried out against seven camps and hideouts of the TTP and its affiliate Islamic State (IS).
He wrote:
“Intelligence-based operations were conducted targeting seven camps and hideouts of TTP and its affiliate IS.”
He further stated:
“Pakistan has always strived to maintain peace and stability in the region. However, the security of Pakistani citizens remains the top priority.”
Previously, in October last year, Pakistani forces conducted strikes deep inside Afghanistan targeting militant hideouts.
The latest operation follows a car bomb attack in the Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, in which at least 11 Pakistani soldiers were killed. Pakistan blamed the Afghan-based TTP for the attack.
However, details regarding casualties or damage from the latest strikes inside Afghanistan have not been disclosed.
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have recently deteriorated, and attention is now focused on how Afghanistan may respond to the latest developments.
