In a dramatic and heartbreaking series of events, the Pakistan Army suffered a massive loss with 25 soldiers martyred in three separate incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan, reported by the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The onslaught also saw the elimination of 27 terrorists, marking this as one of the bloodiest days in recent memory.

Suicide Bombing and Ambush: The Daraban Attack

The ISPR detailed that in the early hours, a group of six terrorists attacked a security forces’ checkpost in Daraban. The terrorists, in a brutal display of violence, rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the post, followed by a suicide bombing attack, leading to the collapse of the building and the martyrdom of 23 brave soldiers. The ISPR’s statement, “all six terrorists were effectively engaged and sent to hell,” reflects the intensity of the clash.

Sanitisation Operations and the Resolve to Combat Terrorism

Following the attack, sanitisation operations were initiated to root out any remaining terrorists. The ISPR’s commitment to “wipe out the menace of terrorism” highlights the unyielding resolve of Pakistan’s security forces in the face of such devastating attacks.

Tehreek-i-Jihad Pakistan Claims Responsibility

The newly emerged Tehreek-i-Jihad Pakistan (TJP), affiliated with the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed responsibility for the Daraban checkpost attack. The involvement of militants from various districts, as claimed by the TJP spokesman, points to a concerning spread of terrorist networks.

Further Operations: 17 Terrorists Killed in Darazinda

In a separate intelligence-based operation in Darazinda, Dera Ismail Khan, the ISPR reported the killing of 17 terrorists. Additionally, two soldiers embraced martyrdom, and four more terrorists were neutralised in another operation in Kulachi. These operations, recovering weapons, ammunition, and explosives, underscore the ongoing challenges faced by security forces.

The Highest Single-Day Death Toll This Year

This series of events marks the military’s highest single-day death toll from terrorist attacks this year, surpassing the previous count of 12 soldiers martyred in Balochistan in July. The nation reels from the shock of these losses, reflecting on the bravery and sacrifice of its soldiers.

Pakistan’s Strong Demarche to Afghanistan

In response to the attacks, Pakistan’s Foreign Office issued a strong demarche to the Afghan diplomat, demanding stern action against the perpetrators and TTP leadership. The call for “immediate verifiable actions” against all terrorist groups signifies Pakistan’s firm stance against cross-border terrorism.

National Leaders Condemn the Attacks

Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, President Arif Alvi, and other prominent leaders strongly condemned the attacks, emphasizing the nation’s unwavering determination to fight terrorism. The prime minister’s assurance to the families of the martyrs and his commitment to combat terrorism were echoed by other leaders, all united in their resolve against this menace.

A Nation in Mourning: Pakistan’s Unshakable Resolve

As Pakistan mourns the loss of its brave soldiers, the nation stands united in its fight against terrorism. The sacrifices of these heroes will not be forgotten, and their valour continues to inspire a nation determined to secure peace and stability.

  Afghanistan, Anwaarul Haq Kakar, Arif Alvi, Dera Ismail Khan, Inter-Services Public Relations, ISPR, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, Pakistan Army, Tehreek-i-Jihad Pakistan, TTP