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In the early hours of August 9, 2024, heavily armed militants launched coordinated attacks on two Pakistani military posts in the Khyber district near the Afghanistan border. Local security sources confirmed that the predawn raid resulted in the deaths of at least five Pakistani security personnel, with at least 12 others injured. The attackers engaged in intense clashes with Pakistani forces, leading to the deaths of several militants.
Claim of Responsibility for the Raid on Pakistani Army Posts
The militant group affiliated with Hafiz Gul Bahadur, an outlawed organization, claimed responsibility for the attack through a social media post. The group has openly stated its coordination with Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a globally recognized terrorist organization, in carrying out insurgent operations against Pakistani security forces.
Rising Violence in the Border Region
The Khyber district, along with other areas along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, has become increasingly prone to militant attacks, particularly targeting security forces and military installations. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, the region has seen a sharp rise in violence, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Pakistanis, primarily security personnel.
Pakistan’s Concerns Over Afghan Safe Havens
Pakistan has expressed concerns that the TTP and other anti-state groups have found sanctuary in Afghanistan, from where they allegedly plan and execute cross-border attacks. Despite these accusations, the Taliban government in Afghanistan has denied the presence of foreign militants on its soil, insisting that it does not allow its territory to be used for attacks against other countries, including Pakistan.
Awaiting Official Response about the Raid on Pakistani Army Posts
As of the time of reporting, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistani military, has not yet provided an official statement or further details regarding the assault. The situation remains tense as security forces continue to monitor the area for further threats.