Pakistani Forces Eliminate 16 'Terrorists' During Border Infiltration Attempt
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Synopsis
On March 24, Pakistan reported the successful thwarting of a major infiltration attempt from Afghanistan, leading to the death of at least 16 terrorists in North Waziristan. The operation highlights ongoing security challenges in the region and the need for improved border management.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan's military killed 16 terrorists.
- Infiltration attempt occurred at the Torkham border.
- Intelligence reports led to the engagement with terrorists.
- Efforts to normalize Pakistan-Afghanistan relations are ongoing.
- Islamabad urges Kabul to manage its border effectively.
Islamabad, March 24 (NationPress) Pakistan announced on Monday that it successfully thwarted a significant infiltration attempt following the reopening of the Pak-Afghan Torkham border, resulting in the elimination of at least 16 terrorists attempting to cross into the nation through the North Waziristan district.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), intelligence reports indicated the movement of terrorists near the Ghulam Khan Kallay area of Pakistan's North Waziristan District, where militants from Afghanistan were making an effort to infiltrate. The security forces acted promptly, engaging the terrorists and successfully neutralizing a total of 16 terrorists.
"Following a fierce exchange of fire, all 16 Khwarij (terrorists) were sent to hell," the statement from ISPR emphasized.
This recent incident hampers the progress towards normalizing relations between the two nations through diplomatic channels and various other avenues. Pakistan and Afghanistan had recently reopened the Pak-Afghan Torkham border after a closure lasting 26 days, accompanied by a ceasefire agreement. Both countries had also reinstated diplomatic communications to enhance their relationship through consistent high-level interactions.
A recent visit to Kabul by a Pakistani delegation, led by Special Representative for Afghanistan Ambassador Sadiq Khan, facilitated brief discussions with the leadership of the Afghan Taliban. This visit held significance as it followed closely after a US delegation's departure from Afghanistan.
During these discussions, both nations expressed a commitment to enhance cooperation on matters such as trade, transit, border management, and refugee issues. There was a mutual agreement to intensify diplomatic engagement and address long-standing challenges faced by both neighbors.
In light of the recent infiltration attempt from the Afghan side, Islamabad has urged Kabul to ensure effective management along their portion of the international border.
"The Interim Afghan Government is expected to uphold its responsibilities and prevent the use of Afghan territory by Khwarij to conduct acts of terrorism against Pakistan," the ISPR statement further noted.
