ISLAMABAD: In a significant escalation of border tensions, Pakistan’s military has reported that over 200 Taliban and affiliated terrorists have been neutralized following an unprovoked attack along the Pak-Afghan border. The incident, detailed in a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), underscores the fragile security dynamics in the region.

Pakistan’s armed forces responded decisively to what they described as an unprovoked assault launched by Afghan Taliban and Indian-sponsored Fitna al Khawarij. The ISPR stated that the attack included gunfire and physical raids, aimed at destabilizing border areas to facilitate terrorism.

The Pakistani military, exercising its right to self-defense, conducted precision strikes and physical raids on Taliban camps, terrorist training facilities, and support networks operating from Afghan territory. The operations reportedly resulted in significant casualties among Taliban forces and their affiliates, with more than 200 neutralized and a higher number injured.

The ISPR highlighted the destruction of multiple Taliban locations and the temporary capture of 21 hostile positions on the Afghan side of the border. The operations led to extensive damage to Taliban posts and support networks, ranging from tactical to operational depths.

In defending Pakistan’s territorial integrity, 23 Pakistani soldiers lost their lives, and 29 were injured. The military emphasized its commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and the safety of its people.

Pakistan has called on the Taliban-led Afghan Government to take verifiable actions against terrorist groups operating from their territory. The ISPR warned that if the Taliban continue to support such groups, Pakistan will persist in neutralizing terror targets to protect its citizens.

The military statement comes amid heightened regional tensions, coinciding with a visit by the Taliban Foreign Minister to India. Pakistan has reiterated its preference for diplomacy but affirmed its unwillingness to tolerate the use of Afghan soil for terrorism. The ISPR’s statement suggests a deepening mistrust between Pakistan and the Taliban Government, which it accuses of facilitating terrorism.