KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – Pakistani security forces say they have killed at least eight militants attempting to cross into North Waziristan from Afghanistan, according to a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The incident took place in the Hassan Khel area of North Waziristan on the night of April 5-6.
Pakistani troops reportedly detected the movement of a group of militants trying to infiltrate the border.
“Own troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt,” ISPR said, adding that after an intense exchange of fire, eight “Khwarij” were killed and four others wounded.
Pakistan has long urged the Taliban authorities in Kabul to prevent such cross-border attacks.
“The interim Afghan government is expected to fulfill its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by Khwarij for terrorism,” ISPR added.
An operation is ongoing in the area.
Pakistani officials say they are committed to securing their borders and eliminating militant threats. The border, stretching over 2,500 kilometres, remains a tense flashpoint between the two countries.
Islamabad claims groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operate from Afghanistan territory, a charge the Taliban denies.
The UN has previously reported links between the Taliban and the TTP, alleging operational and logistical support.
Last month, 16 militants were killed in a similar infiltration attempt in the Ghulam Khan Kallay area of North Waziristan.
Pakistan has seen a sharp spike in militant violence.
According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, January 2025 saw a 42% increase in attacks. At least 74 attacks were recorded across the country that month, leaving 91 dead and 117 injured.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the worst-hit province, especially in the tribal areas bordering Afghanistan.
