Dozens killed as Pakistani army, fighters clash near Afghan border | Pakistan Taliban News | Al Jazeera
A fierce gunbattle broke out in Pakistan’s Orakzai district—close to the Afghan frontier—during an intelligence operation that turned deadly. The military and militants exchanged heavy fire, resulting in the loss of several lives. Among those killed were senior officers, including a lieutenant colonel and a major, along with multiple soldiers. On the militant side, nearly two dozen were slain, according to the army. The militant group Pakistan Taliban claimed responsibility, saying it ambushed a convoy using a roadside bomb before opening fire. Islamabad accuses militants of using Afghanistan as a base for cross-border attacks, a charge Kabul denies. The government said it would not allow terror groups to gain safe sanctuary on its soil, and praised the forces involved for their “sacrificial service.”
The Key points
- The clash took place early Wednesday in Orakzai district near Pakistan’s Afghan border.
- Eleven military personnel were confirmed dead, including senior officers.
- Nineteen militants were reportedly killed in the firefight.
- The conflict erupted during an intelligence operation by Pakistani forces.
- Militants allegedly ambushed a convoy using a roadside bomb.
- The Pakistan Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.
- Islamabad maintains militants use Afghan territory to launch operations.
- Kabul rejects being a safe haven for anti-Pakistan militants.
- Pakistan vowed to deny terrorists any safe refuge.
- The government paid tribute to its troops and emphasized the fight against terrorism.
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