Overview
- Pakistan’s information ministry said intelligence-based strikes targeted TTP/Fitna al Khwarij and ISKP hideouts along the border after a surge in attacks.
- Islamabad said it had conclusive evidence tying recent suicide bombings, including a deadly mosque attack in the capital, to Afghanistan-based leadership and handlers.
- Afghan authorities reported strikes in Nangarhar and Paktika and said a madrassa and homes were hit, rejecting Pakistan’s claim that militant camps were targeted.
- Pakistan’s deputy interior minister claimed nearly 70 militants were killed, with state media later citing up to 80, figures disputed by Kabul as a Red Crescent official in Nangarhar reported 18 dead.
- The operation followed suicide attacks in Bajaur and Bannu that killed Pakistani soldiers, including Lt Col Shahzada Gul Faraz, as Afghanistan summoned Pakistan’s ambassador and tensions over a fragile ceasefire deepened.