The Pakistani military announced on Thursday that it had killed 10 militants during a security operation in the country’s northwest, as security forces continue efforts to curb growing insurgent activity.
According to a military statement, the operation was conducted in the town of Jandola in the Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The raid was based on intelligence reports regarding militant movements in the area, which has long been a stronghold for extremist groups operating along the Afghan border.
The latest military action follows a deadly attack earlier this week on the Jaffar Express train, which was ambushed by militants in the Dehdar area of the Bolan Corridor in Balochistan. On Wednesday, Pakistani forces announced they had killed 27 militants and wounded several others in a counteroperation after the attack.
Train Attack and Hostage Crisis
The attack on the Jaffar Express took place on Tuesday when militants stormed the train as it traveled from Quetta in Balochistan province to Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The attackers took 182 hostages, including military personnel and security officials, demanding the withdrawal of security forces from their area.
The train, which was carrying around 400 passengers, was ambushed inside a tunnel, making it difficult for authorities to respond immediately. The train’s conductor was seriously injured during the attack.
The hostage situation has escalated tensions in the region, with Pakistani security forces launching efforts to rescue the captives and neutralize the militants. So far, authorities have not provided further details on negotiations or the status of the remaining hostages.
Escalating Violence in Pakistan
The surge in militant activity, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has heightened security concerns across Pakistan. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and other insurgent groups have stepped up attacks on security forces, infrastructure, and civilians in recent months, citing grievances over government policies in the region.
The Pakistani military has vowed to continue its counterterrorism efforts, launching a series of operations targeting militant hideouts. However, the attacks have highlighted the persistent security challenges facing the country, particularly in remote and insurgency-prone areas.
As the situation develops, security officials remain on high alert, while the government faces growing pressure to ensure stability and prevent further attacks.
