Doha: The Pakistani army announced on Wednesday that 11 of its soldiers fell during an intelligence-based operation in the Orakzai district, west of the country. It added that the operation, which took place in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province near the Afghan border, saw the killing of 19 militants in an intense exchange of fire, which also led to the death of the 11 soldiers.

According to Qatar News Agency, the operation in the Orakzai district was part of a broader initiative to combat militant activity in the region. The Pakistani military has been conducting operations in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a region known for its strategic importance and challenging terrain, which often serves as a hideout for militant groups.

The military’s statement highlighted the challenges faced by the armed forces in securing the border areas, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. The operation’s success in neutralizing 19 militants was noted as a significant achievement, despite the loss of 11 soldiers.

The Pakistani government has been under pressure to address security concerns in the north-western regions, which have been hotspots for militant activities. These operations are part of a concerted effort to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent cross-border insurgencies.

The Orakzai district, where the operation took place, has been a focal point of military operations due to its proximity to the Afghan border and the presence of various militant factions. The Pakistani military continues to conduct intelligence-based operations to curtail the influence of these groups and ensure regional stability.