IN a decisive operation demonstrating precision and resolve, Pakistan has struck a significant blow against Fitna al-Khawarij operating from across its border. Four major spots in Paktika province, Afghanistan – yeah, the ones known for harbouring those terrorist camps – have been taken out. It’s actually being celebrated as one of the most effective counterterrorism operations the world has seen this year. And this all kicked off around December 23rd to 24th, 2024. The targeted operation, reportedly resulting in the elimination of around 60 militants, including high-value targets such as Sher Zaman (Mukhlis Yar), Commander Abu Hamza, Akhtar Muhammad (Khalil), and the notorious Umar Media run by Kharji Shoaib Iqbal, marks a turning point in the fight against regional terrorism. The strikes, aimed at dismantling infrastructure used for training suicide bombers and indoctrinating young minds, resonate with a broader message: Pakistan will no longer tolerate threats to its sovereignty and peace.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this operation was its precision, meticulously planned to avoid civilian casualties and focus solely on terrorist hideouts, leaving nearby mosques and seminaries unharmed. This demonstrates the operational intelligence and strategic planning of Pakistan’s armed forces. Videos and audio recordings reveal chaos within the militants’ ranks, with desperate cries for help and accusations of betrayal, highlighting the psychological and structural impact of the strikes. Satellite imagery of Sher Zaman’s central hub shows a site completely razed to the ground, underscoring the thoroughness of the operation. Despite the political and humanitarian complexities of the region, the military’s professionalism ensured no harm to innocent bystanders, reflecting its adherence to norms of conduct in war. The militants targeted in this operation belong to the Fitna al-Khawarij, a group notorious for brutality and extremism, whose activities, including training suicide bombers and indoctrinating children, have caused immense harm to Pakistan and the broader region. The demise of Commander Abu Hamza, known for exploiting vulnerable children and moulding them into instruments of terror, sends a clear message that such inhumanity will face justice. Additionally, the destruction of Sher Zaman’s suicide bomber training factory, reportedly the largest of its kind, deals a critical blow to the Khawarij’s operational capabilities.
For a nation that has lost 16 brave soldiers in recent confrontations with Fitna al-Khawarij, this operation serves as both a poignant act of retribution and a testament to Pakistan’s enduring resolve to combat extremism. Its implications extend beyond national borders, highlighting longstanding issues of porous frontiers, limited regional coordination, and the misuse of uncontrolled territories by non-state actors. By executing a highly focused operation, Pakistan has demonstrated its capability to address these challenges while raising critical questions about Afghanistan’s role in harbouring such elements. The presence of terrorist sanctuaries within Afghan territory underscores the urgent need for stronger cross-border collaboration, reinforcing Pakistan’s call for collective regional efforts to eradicate terrorism. The international community, too, must take note. The success of Pakistan’s strike has garnered attention from foreign observers, some of whom have described it as the most significant counterterrorism success against the Khawarij this year. This acknowledgment should prompt greater international support for Pakistan’s efforts, both diplomatically and in terms of resources, to ensure the eradication of such threats.
Though the operation is a substantial accomplishment, it does not represent the finish line. The battle against Fitna al-Khawarij is not a sprint but a long-distance endeavour. The Pakistani military’s senior leadership has pledged to track down the remnants of these outfits. Such determination must be reinforced by a sustained approach that combines military, social, and ideological measures to prevent another resurgence of extremism. At home, the operation has bolstered national morale. In a country ravaged by terrorism for years, the population views this achievement as a testament to the resilience and professionalism of its military. However, building on this success will require vigilance, unity, and even greater resources to be allocated to counter-terrorism efforts.
General Asim Munir has made it pretty clear that Pakistan’s patience has its limits. It’s really up to Afghanistan now—either they get on board with the global fight against terrorism or they’ll have to deal with what comes next if they keep ignoring the situation. For Pakistan, there’s no ambiguity here: Pakistan won’t allow any safe spots for Fitna al-Khawarij groups. The struggle will go on until there’s peace. Pakistan has already taken necessary steps, and honestly, Pakistan is prepared to do even more if needed. Pakistan’s most recent operation in Paktika is evidence of its determination to secure the region and defend its people. By eliminating these terrorist facilities selectively and precisely, Pakistan has shown that it will do what is necessary to protect its peace and its sovereignty. As the nation celebrates this success, it must also remain mindful of the challenges ahead. The war against terror is far from over, but with the resolve displayed in this operation, Pakistan has shown it is more than capable of rising to the occasion. Indeed, Pakistan has done the needful—and it will continue to do so until the threat of terrorism is eradicated from its soil and beyond.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
