A large and intense clash between Pakistani security forces and militants near the Afghanistan border has left many dead on both sides. The confrontation took place in the rugged Orakzai district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, close to Pakistan’s frontier with Afghanistan.
Early in the morning Pakistani forces raided a suspected hideout of militant fighters. The operation triggered a fierce firefight involving roadside bombs and gunfire exchanges. At least 11 paramilitary troops were killed, among them two officers. On the militant side about 19 fighters also died. The militants later claimed responsibility for the attack.
The Pakistani military identified some of the insurgents as members of outlawed groups operating in the region. The area has seen frequent militant activity, with many groups believed to be using nearby Afghan territory as a base. The military has blamed external support for these groups, though specifics have not been publicly confirmed.
The incident has raised serious security concerns at both national and regional levels. It underscores ongoing challenges Pakistan faces in ensuring border security and dealing with cross-border militant incursions. Locals in border regions are now living in heightened fear as violence continues and government forces ramp up operations.