Over 200 Taliban killed in Pakistan counter-attack: ISPR

At least 23 Pakistani soldiers were killed in fierce clashes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). In retaliation, the army claimed to have killed more than 200 Taliban members and their associates.

In a statement issued on Sunday, October 12, the ISPR said Taliban fighters and the “India-backed” militant outfit Fitna al-Khawarij launched sudden attacks across the border on the night of 11–12 October from inside Afghan territory.

ISPR described the assault as a “cowardly act” aimed at destabilising Pakistan. Exercising the right to self-defence, Pakistani troops carried out counter-operations, inflicting heavy losses on the Taliban.

According to the statement, air and ground strikes targeted terrorist bases, training centres, and networks of Fitna al-Khawarij, Fitna al-Hindustan and IS-Khorasan Province (ISKP) inside Afghanistan. More than 200 Taliban were reportedly killed and many others injured.

ISPR said several Taliban strongholds and headquarters were destroyed, and 21 of their border outposts were temporarily captured inside Pakistan.

Citing The Times of India, reports added that Pakistan directly blamed the Taliban government and India for orchestrating the attacks.

“The Taliban regime is actively aiding the terrorists. If India and the Taliban continue their destabilising plots, Pakistan will be compelled to take firm measures to protect its people,” ISPR warned.