Islamabad, Dec 28 (NationPress) According to a high-ranking officer from the Pakistan army, a total of 383 security personnel and 925 terrorists lost their lives during 59,775 operations carried out throughout Pakistan in 2024.

During these operations, 73 high-value targets affiliated with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and other militant factions were eliminated, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), stated in a press conference on Friday, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

He emphasized, “This year represents the highest number of terrorists neutralized in the last five years.”

On average, over 179 operations were executed daily by the Pakistani army, alongside law enforcement and intelligence agencies, according to the ISPR chief.

Chaudhry highlighted that the Pakistani military has made remarkable advancements in counter-terrorism initiatives and border security management.

Moreover, the military has broadened its operations to tackle smuggling, drug trafficking, electricity theft, and hoarding, he noted.

He stated, “The army and law enforcement agencies combat terrorists, but the nation confronts terrorism,” adding that there is unity among all societal sections and political parties on this issue.

Recently, intense clashes erupted between Afghan and Pakistani border forces in eastern Afghanistan's Khost and Paktia provinces near Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of 19 Pakistani soldiers and three Afghan civilians on Saturday.

These confrontations followed airstrikes conducted by Pakistani forces in Paktika province on Tuesday night, which resulted in 51 fatalities, including women and children.

Additionally, following the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan, Pakistan has experienced an increase in terror incidents, as the new regime has empowered and strengthened the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The TTP seeks to establish an Islamic emirate in Pakistan, mirroring the objectives of its counterpart in Kabul.

A report by the Center for Research and Security Studies, based in Islamabad, indicated a 56 percent rise in fatalities from terrorist attacks in Pakistan in 2023 compared to the previous year, with over 1,500 casualties, including 500 security personnel.