Pakistani security forces have killed 23 fighters in two targeted operations near the Afghan border, amid escalating tensions with Afghanistan and ongoing concerns about cross-border militancy. The raids follow a series of military operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, aimed at neutralizing threats from banned groups, including the Pakistan Taliban (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, TTP).

Details of the Border Raids

The Pakistan military launched the first operation on Wednesday in Kurram District, describing the targets as “khawarij,” a term used for extremist groups operating in the region. The raid led to an intense exchange of fire, resulting in 12 militants killed. No casualties were reported on the Pakistani side.

A second raid in the same general area killed 11 more fighters, bringing the total to 23. These operations are part of a broader crackdown that has claimed more than 30 lives this week in the province.

The recent surge in operations comes after a suicide bombing in Islamabad on November 11, which killed at least 12 people and injured 30 more.

Allegations and Cross-Border Tensions

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif have blamed India and Afghanistan for supporting attacks inside Pakistan, though no evidence has been presented. Both India and Afghanistan have denied involvement.

These tensions follow peace talks in Istanbul, Turkey, which ended without resolution, though a fragile ceasefire reportedly continues to hold despite sporadic violence along the border.

Rise of the Pakistan Taliban

The Pakistan Taliban has gained strength since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. The group seeks to overthrow the Pakistani government and has significantly escalated attacks in recent months.

According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, attacks by the Pakistan Taliban surpassed a decade-old high in August 2025. In 2024, 856 incidents were recorded, up from 645 in 2023, reflecting a growing threat to national security.

Impact on Regional Security

The ongoing raids highlight the persistent security challenges faced by Pakistan along its western border. The operations also underscore the complex regional dynamics involving Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India, where accusations of cross-border support for militant groups exacerbate long-standing disputes.

As the Pakistan Taliban continues to expand its operations, authorities are under increasing pressure to safeguard civilians and stabilize border regions while pursuing diplomatic engagement with neighboring countries.