Pakistani Forces Kill 16 Terrorists Attempting to Cross from Afghanistan: ISPR

On March 23, 2025, Pakistani security forces intercepted and neutralized 16 militants attempting to infiltrate from Afghanistan into the Ghulam Khan Kallay area of North Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the operation occurred during the night of March 22-23, following the detection of the militants’ movement across the Pak-Afghan border. An intense exchange of fire ensued, resulting in the elimination of all 16 insurgents. 

The ISPR emphasized Pakistan’s longstanding request for the Afghan Interim Government to ensure effective border management and prevent the use of Afghan territory by militants targeting Pakistan. The statement reiterated the expectation that Afghanistan would fulfill its obligations in this regard. 

In response to the successful operation, President Asif Ali Zardari lauded the bravery of the security forces, stating that Pakistan’s forces are committed to protecting the country’s borders and will continue actions against terrorists until the complete elimination of terrorism. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the professionalism of the security forces for swiftly thwarting the infiltration attempt. 

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges Pakistan faces in securing its borders and combating militant activities, particularly in regions adjacent to Afghanistan.