Pakistan says precision airstrikes targeted two militant hideouts in Afghanistan, destroying weapons and ammunition while claiming civilian safety was prioritized.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said Thursday that 22 militants belonging to Fitna al-Hindustan and Fitna al-Khawarij were killed in airstrikes targeting militant hideouts in Afghanistan.
According to the ministry, the strikes were carried out at two locations on the basis of confirmed intelligence information. A substantial quantity of weapons and ammunition stored at the targeted sites was also destroyed.
The ministry said the targets were engaged with a high degree of precision, while maximum precautions were taken to avoid civilian casualties. It reiterated that the safety and protection of civilians remained a priority for Pakistan.
The reported strikes were conducted under Operation Ghazab Lil-Haq, which Pakistan says is aimed at targeting terrorist hideouts and safe havens.
Pakistan cites security concerns linked to Afghanistan
The Ministry of Information said Pakistan continues to face a terrorism threat emanating from Afghanistan and expressed concern over the country allegedly remaining a hub for militant activity.
It said Pakistan remained committed to regional peace and stability and that security forces and law-enforcement agencies would continue operations under the government’s Stability Resolve vision.
The ministry further said Operation Ghazab Lil-Haq would continue until terrorism allegedly supported by foreign elements was eliminated, adding that security institutions remained committed to combating militancy.
Pakistan rejects allegations over fighting in Nuristan
Earlier, the Ministry of Information rejected allegations by the Afghan Taliban that Pakistan was responsible for fighting in Afghanistan’s Nuristan province.
The ministry described the accusation as unfounded and said such claims were intended to divert attention from what it characterized as internal unrest, instability and governance challenges in Afghanistan.
Pakistan and Afghanistan have continued to exchange allegations over cross-border militancy and security concerns, with Islamabad maintaining that militant groups operating from Afghan territory pose a threat to Pakistan.