Pakistan intensifies fight against TTP, kills 30 in major counter-terror sweep

Islamabad: Pakistan’s military has announced that 30 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants were killed in a string of intelligence-based “retribution operations” in the Orakzai district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The militants were reportedly involved in an earlier ambush that left 11 soldiers dead, including a Lieutenant Colonel and a Major.

According to an army statement issued on Friday, the operations were launched following the October 7 attack in Orakzai. The statement said that the latest operation in the Jamal Maya area, based on credible intelligence, resulted in an intense exchange of fire in which “all 30 Khwarij involved in the terrorist incident have been sent to hell.”

“These successful operations have avenged the heinous act and brought the main perpetrators to justice,” the statement added.

The Pakistan government has previously designated the outlawed TTP as “Fitna al-Khawarij,” a term referring to a violent faction in early Islamic history.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces for their bravery, stating that they were “safeguarding the motherland against the enemy by risking their lives.” President Asif Ali Zardari also commended the “courageous” response by the military, while Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi affirmed that the nation stands united with its armed forces.

“We will not let the terrorists of Fitna al-Khawarij hide anywhere in Pakistan,” Naqvi said.

Pakistan has witnessed a sharp rise in militant violence, with recent reports showing a 46 per cent increase in attacks during the third quarter of 2025. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the worst-hit province, accounting for over 70 per cent of fatalities, followed by Balochistan. Most incidents have targeted police, law enforcement, and security personnel, underscoring the continuing security challenges facing the country.
(With PTI inputs)