Summary:
- Three Pakistani soldiers were martyred while repelling a terrorist infiltration attempt near Bajaur.
- The military successfully thwarted the attack, killing five terrorists and injuring four.
- The incident highlights ongoing security issues and the need for better border management by Afghanistan.
In a recent confrontation on the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, three Pakistani soldiers were martyred during a fierce gun battle with terrorists. The attack took place on the night between August 18 and 19 near the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa district of Bajaur. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the soldiers, Sepoy Waqar Khan, Lance Naik Umer Hayat, and Naik Inayat Khan, bravely engaged the terrorists who were attempting to breach the border.
The ISPR statement detailed that the Pakistani security forces effectively repelled the infiltration attempt, killing five terrorists and injuring four others. Despite the soldiers’ valiant efforts, they paid the ultimate price for their bravery.
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by Pakistan, especially with the resurgence of terrorism following the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. The violence has been concentrated in border regions such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Recent statistics show a surge in terror-related incidents, with 380 fatalities and 220 injuries reported in the second quarter of the year alone.
In response to the growing threat, the Pakistani federal cabinet approved Operation Azm-e-Istehkam in June. This national counter-terrorism campaign aims to strengthen efforts against terrorism, following recommendations from the Central Apex Committee under the national Action Plan.
The ISPR also reiterated calls for the interim Afghan government to enhance border security and prevent the use of Afghan territory for terrorist activities against Pakistan. The Pakistani military remains committed to securing its borders and ensuring the safety of its citizens, despite the rising threat of terrorism.
