Security Forces Eliminate Four Terrorists in Kalat District
RAWALPINDI: Pakistani security forces killed four militants linked to the India-sponsored group Fitna al-Hindustan during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan’s Kalat district, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was launched on the night of November 1, 2025, after receiving intelligence about the presence of the terrorist group in the area.
“During the operation, troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ hideout, neutralising four Indian-sponsored militants,” the ISPR said, adding that the forces also recovered weapons and ammunition from the site.
The slain terrorists were reportedly involved in multiple attacks targeting civilians and security personnel across Balochistan.
Sanitisation Operation Underway
Following the encounter, security forces launched a sanitisation operation to clear the area of any remaining militants or collaborators.
The ISPR reaffirmed that the country’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign — part of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, endorsed by the National Action Plan’s federal apex committee — would continue “at full pace” until the complete elimination of foreign-sponsored militancy.
President Zardari Praises Security Forces
President Asif Ali Zardari lauded the military for successfully eliminating the terrorists, commending their courage and commitment to the nation’s security.
“The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with our brave forces in their mission to root out terrorism,” the president said in a statement, reiterating support for Operation Azm-e-Istehkam.
Rising Terror Threat Across Pakistan
The latest operation comes amid a surge in terrorist activity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan over the past year. On Monday, the ISPR reported that three terrorists were killed in separate encounters in North Waziristan and Tank districts.
In North Waziristan’s Esham area, troops detected a group of infiltrators attempting to cross the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. They were engaged and neutralised “through a precise and skilful operation,” according to military officials.
Regional Tensions and Cross-Border Challenges
Pakistan has witnessed a steady uptick in cross-border terrorism since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. Islamabad has repeatedly urged Kabul to act against groups using Afghan soil for attacks inside Pakistan.
Despite Pakistan’s concerns, the Taliban administration has been accused of turning a blind eye to militant sanctuaries. Relations further strained after an unprovoked border exchange on October 12, which disrupted earlier ceasefire arrangements.
Both sides have since extended their truce following talks in Istanbul (October 25–30), where they agreed to set up a joint monitoring and verification mechanism to maintain peace and punish violations.
The next round of discussions, scheduled for November 6 in Istanbul, is expected to finalise the operational details of this cooperative framework.
Operation Azm-e-Istehkam: A Renewed Push Against Militancy
Operation Azm-e-Istehkam — translated as “Resolve for Stability” — represents Pakistan’s renewed commitment to eradicating terrorism through coordinated military, intelligence, and law enforcement actions.
Officials say the campaign targets not only domestic militant networks but also foreign-backed outfits seeking to destabilise the country.
“The resolve of our forces remains unshaken,” the ISPR stated. “No compromise will be made on national security or sovereignty.”
