The information ministry confirmed on Monday that Pakistan had conducted airstrikes on terrorist sites “in the border region with Afghanistan”, killing more than 28 terrorists.

The ministry stressed that the “calibrated” strikes were carried out “against the hideouts and safe havens of terrorist organisations responsible” for the recent multiple terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

“Based on credible intelligence, selective targeting of terrorist camps and hideouts belonging to Fitna al Khawarij and its affiliates has also been carried out in the border region with Afghanistan with precision and accuracy,” the statement said.

It added: “Three targets were destroyed with precision, including a suicide bombers’ training markaz (centre), killing 28 terrorists alongside multiple suicide bombers.

“Large quantities of weapons and ammunition stored at these marakiz (centres) and hideouts were also destroyed.”

The state uses the term Fitna al Khawarij for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Prior to the airstrikes, security forces conducted a “well-planned intelligence-based ground operation” on Sunday against a group of terrorists in KP’s Kohat and Hangu districts, the ministry said.

“As a result of precise and skilful engagement, nine khawarij belonging to Indian proxy Fitna al Khawarij were sent to hell, while several were injured,” the statement added.

The ministry highlighted that Pakistan had “always strived for the maintenance of peace and stability in the region”.

“However, the safety and security of our citizens remains our foremost priority. It is a matter of grave concern that Afghanistan continues to remain a hub of terrorism,” it said, specifying that the “threat to Pakistan emanates from Afghanistan”.

“In this context, our action precisely targeted the terrorist hubs. Maximum precautions were taken and it was ensured that no collateral damage occurs,” the ministry asserted.

More to follow