ISLAMABAD, Monday, September 21, 2026: Pakistan’s security forces have killed 37 militants in intelligence-based ground operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and precision strikes on suspected militant hideouts across the border in Afghanistan, according to an official statement.
The operations were launched following a series of deadly terrorist attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including recent violence in Kohat and Hangu that caused significant casualties among security personnel and civilians.
According to the official statement, security forces carried out an intelligence-based ground operation on September 20 in the Kohat and Hangu districts after receiving information about the presence of militants.
Officials said nine militants belonging to what the state describes as the Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij were killed during precise engagements, while several others were injured.
The statement said security forces subsequently carried out selective strikes against militant camps, hideouts and safe havens in the border region with Afghanistan on the basis of what officials described as credible intelligence.
Three suspected militant targets were destroyed in the strikes, including what Pakistani authorities described as a suicide-bomber training centre.
According to the official account, 28 militants, including multiple suspected suicide bombers, were killed in the strikes. Large quantities of weapons and ammunition stored at the targeted facilities were also destroyed.
Pakistani authorities said the targets were linked to Fitna al-Khawarij and affiliated groups blamed for terrorist attacks inside Pakistan.
The government maintained that the strikes were directed specifically at militant infrastructure and said maximum precautions were taken to avoid civilian casualties.
Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns over what it describes as militant sanctuaries operating from Afghan territory and has urged the authorities in Kabul to prevent Afghan soil from being used for attacks against Pakistan.
The latest action follows a deadly assault on Kohat Police Lines on September 18, where an explosives-laden vehicle was used in an attack followed by armed militants entering the compound. Police, Counter-Terrorism Department personnel and security forces later conducted an extended clearance operation.
Separately, security forces have also been engaged in operations against militants in Hangu and surrounding areas amid heightened security concerns across parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Pakistan said it remained committed to regional peace and stability but stressed that the protection of its citizens would remain its foremost priority.
The statement described terrorism originating from Afghan territory as a serious security concern and said Pakistan’s latest action had precisely targeted suspected militant hubs.
Security forces and law enforcement agencies, meanwhile, will continue the country’s counterterrorism campaign, Ghazab lil Haq, under the broader Azm-e-Istehkam framework, the statement said.
Authorities said operations against foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism would continue as part of efforts to eliminate militant networks and prevent further attacks inside Pakistan.