Major Sibtain Martyred in Intelligence-Based Operation, Seven Terrorists Killed in Dera Ismail Khan
Pakistani Army Strikes Terrorist Group in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
In a daring intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan Army Major Sibtain Haider was martyred while leading his troops in a fierce firefight against Indian proxy terrorists. The operation, which took place on October 8 in the Daraban area, led to the elimination of seven terrorists linked to hostile forces, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The military spokesperson confirmed that the operation was launched following intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists in the area. Major Sibtain, who was 30 years old and hailed from Quetta, displayed exceptional courage, leading his troops from the front during the engagement. He ultimately made the ultimate sacrifice for the defense of Pakistan.
National Leaders Pay Tribute to Martyred Officer
Both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid heartfelt tributes to Major Sibtain’s bravery and sacrifice. In a statement, President Zardari praised the officer’s commitment to his country, noting that his sacrifice served as a “great example” for others. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the security forces for their successful operation, which targeted the terror group known as Fitna al-Khawarij, a reference to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the nation’s pride in its military, stating, “The entire nation, including myself, is proud of the courageous officers and soldiers of our armed forces, who remain engaged day and night in defending the country.” He also reaffirmed the government’s resolve to continue combating terrorism until the complete eradication of this threat.
Ongoing Operation and Terrorist Network Disruption
Following the successful elimination of the terrorists, a sanitization operation remains underway to ensure the area is cleared of any further terror threats. The ISPR reported that the terrorists had been involved in numerous attacks against security forces, law enforcement agencies, and the killing of innocent civilians. Additionally, weapons and ammunition were recovered from the terrorists.
The IBO in Dera Ismail Khan follows a similar operation in Orakzai district a day earlier, where two army officers and nine soldiers were martyred while eliminating 19 terrorists. The attack was part of a broader military effort to neutralize Indian-sponsored terrorist proxies, such as Fitna Al-Khawarij and Fitna Al-Hindustan, which the army has vowed to dismantle.
Surge in Terrorism Across Pakistan
Pakistan has experienced a worrying increase in violence, with the latest figures showing a 46% surge in terrorist-related incidents in the third quarter of 2025. The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) reported a total of 901 fatalities and 599 injuries in 329 violent incidents, including terror attacks and counter-terror operations.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, both of which share porous borders with Afghanistan, have been the hardest-hit regions, accounting for more than 96% of the country’s terrorism-related violence. KP alone suffered nearly 71% of the total fatalities, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to militant activity.
Pakistan Army’s Ongoing Commitment
In light of the escalating violence, the Pakistan Army’s leadership reaffirmed its commitment to neutralizing terror threats during its 272nd Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC). The forum emphasized the need to dismantle networks that threaten the country’s security, particularly those linked to foreign-sponsored terrorism.
The military’s proactive stance against terrorism, bolstered by intelligence-based operations, highlights Pakistan’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding its citizens and maintaining national security.
