Orakzai: Nineteen militants identified as Indian-sponsored Khwarij were killed by security forces in an intelligence-based operation in Orakzai District, as confirmed by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
In the course of this operation, an intense exchange of fire resulted in the deaths of Lieutenant Colonel Junaid Tariq and Major Tayyab Rahat, along with nine other soldiers. Their actions were described as courageous, leading the offensive from the front lines before they embraced martyrdom.
The fallen soldiers were identified as Naib Subedar Azam Gul, Naik Adil Hussain, Naik Gul Ameer, Lance Naik Sher Khan, Lance Naik Talish Faraz, Lance Naik Irshad Hussain, Sepoy Tufail Khan, Sepoy Aqib Ali, and Sepoy Muhammad Zahid.
Efforts are ongoing to sanitize the area and eliminate any remaining threats posed by Indian-backed militants, according to the ISPR. The statement reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism linked to Indian support within its borders.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have both extended their commendations to the security forces for the operation. The President referred to the deceased officers and soldiers as national heroes, emphasizing the nation’s resolve to counter Indian-backed terrorism.
Prime Minister Sharif echoed these sentiments, asserting that the sacrifices made by security personnel would not be in vain and reaffirming the commitment to thwart the objectives of Indian-supported militants.
The Pakistani leadership has stressed that the nation stands united with its armed forces in confronting these challenges.