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In a significant blow to terrorist networks operating in Pakistan’s tribal regions, Pakistani security forces eliminated 11 Indian-sponsored militants in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Sararogha area of South Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The operation, carried out on credible intelligence of terrorist presence, was confirmed by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday.
During the fierce exchange of fire, Major Syed Moiz Abbas Shah (37) and Lance Naik Jibran Ullah were martyred while leading their troops from the front.
Major Moiz: A Symbol of Bravery and Dedication
Major Syed Moiz Abbas Shah, according to ISPR, was renowned for his fearless leadership and had participated in multiple successful operations against militant outfits across KP. His decision to lead the operation from the front line underscored his dedication to the mission and his troops.
“Major Moiz was a brave son of the soil who embraced martyrdom with courage and honour,” the ISPR said in its statement.
Lance Naik Jibran Ullah, also remembered for his commitment to duty, made the ultimate sacrifice alongside his commanding officer.
Indian Proxy Network Targeted: “Fitna al Khwarij”
The operation specifically targeted terrorists associated with “Fitna al Khwarij”, a group described by Pakistani authorities as an Indian proxy network fueling insurgency in the region.
Seven additional terrorists were injured in the operation, and a sanitization process was carried out to eliminate any remaining threats in the vicinity.
The ISPR reiterated the military’s resolve to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism, stating:
“Security forces are determined to root out the menace of Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country. The sacrifices of our brave soldiers only strengthen this resolve.”
May Sees Spike in Violence: 85 Militant Attacks Nationwide
The operation comes amid a concerning rise in militant attacks across Pakistan. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), May 2025 saw 85 militant attacks, a 5% increase from April’s 81 incidents.
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These attacks resulted in 113 fatalities, including:
- 52 security personnel
- 46 civilians
- 11 militants
- 4 peace committee members
Injuries also surged, totaling 182 individuals — a sharp rise from April’s 118. Notably, civilian injuries skyrocketed by 145%, jumping from 53 in April to 130 in May.
Security Forces Respond with Deadly Precision
Despite being targeted, Pakistan’s armed forces remained proactive. Operations carried out by security personnel in May led to:
- 59 militants killed
- 5 security personnel martyred in action
The combined casualties from militant attacks and counter-terrorism operations totaled 172 fatalities in May alone. This included:
- 57 security personnel
- 65 militants
- 46 civilians
- 4 peace committee members
Balochistan and KP: Epicenters of Militancy
The provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) remained the most affected, accounting for 82 out of 85 total attacks nationwide.
Balochistan Breakdown:
- 35 attacks
- 51 killed, including 30 civilians and 18 security personnel
- 100 injured, including 94 civilians
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
While KP saw fewer attacks compared to Balochistan, the intensity of engagements, such as the South Waziristan IBO, reflects the volatile security dynamics in tribal regions.
Mounting Pressure on India-Pakistan Relations
The ISPR’s reference to the Indian-sponsored group reignites longstanding allegations of foreign involvement in Pakistan’s internal unrest. Pakistan has repeatedly accused India of backing proxy terror outfits to destabilize its western regions.
Although military tensions between the two countries have escalated at the diplomatic level, there has been no full-scale military confrontation. However, the operational dynamics on the ground remain tense.
