At least 12 Pakistani soldiers were martyred while 35 terrorists were killed in two separate military operations against the Indian proxy group Fitna al-Khawarij between September 10 and 13, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed on Saturday.

According to the ISPR, security forces launched an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Bajaur after receiving reports of militant presence. “Our troops effectively engaged the location, and after an intense fire exchange, 22 terrorists were killed,” the statement read. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the terrorists during the operation.

In a separate operation in South Waziristan, 13 more militants were killed. The ISPR noted that at least 12 soldiers embraced martyrdom during fierce encounters with heavily armed terrorists. “Sanitisation operations are ongoing to eliminate any remaining threats,” the statement added.

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The military’s media wing stressed that intelligence reports confirmed Afghan nationals’ involvement in these attacks. “Use of Afghan soil against Pakistan by Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists continues to remain a grave point of concern,” the ISPR noted. Pakistan has urged the Afghan government to prevent its territory from being used for cross-border terrorism.

The ISPR reiterated Pakistan’s determination to eradicate militancy. “Such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve to wipe out Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country,” the statement concluded.