In one of the deadliest attacks in recent months, 11 Pakistani soldiers were killed in a clash with militants near the Afghan border, security sources and the military confirmed Wednesday.

The incident occurred in Orakzai district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, close to the Pakistan‑Afghanistan frontier. The clash began during an intelligence‑based operation early on October 7, when security forces attempted to raid a suspected hideout of the Tehreek‑e‑Taliban Pakistan.

According to military sources, the militants launched an ambush, initiating the attack with roadside bombs followed by direct gunfire.

The government has confirmed that among the dead were two senior officers — Lt. Col. Junaid Arif and Major Tayyab Rahat — both of whom were praised posthumously for bravery.

Meanwhile, 19 militants were reportedly killed in the ensuing battle. The TTP claimed responsibility for the operation.

In response to the ambush, Pakistani security forces launched raid operations in Orakzai, during which they say they killed 30 militants believed to have been involved in or supporting the attack.

The military has used strong language in its public statements, labelling the militants as “Khwarij,” a term frequently used by Pakistani authorities for insurgents they claim are backed by foreign elements.

It also reiterated longstanding accusations that some militant groups operate from Afghan territory and are supported by external actors.

In parliament, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif pledged that the government would continue “decisive action” against militant strongholds and cross-border sanctuaries. He also called on Afghanistan’s Taliban government to prevent the use of its soil for attacks against Pakistan.

The border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has long been a flashpoint. Militant groups such as the TTP have intensified cross‑border operations since the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul in 2021, claiming to find sanctuary and logistical support across the border.

Earlier in September 2025, Pakistani forces raided multiple TTP hideouts near the Afghan border, resulting in clashes that left an estimated 12 soldiers and 35 militants dead.

The Orakzai ambush is viewed as one of the more significant attacks in recent times, particularly due to the high number of military fatalities and the inclusion of senior officers among the dead. Analysts say it underscores the persistent challenges Pakistan faces in securing its northwest frontier against well‑armed militant groups.

Government and military reactions

The Pakistani government has expressed condolences and pledged full support to affected families. The military has vowed to bolster intelligence efforts, increase surveillance, and intensify cross-border operations to dismantle militant networks. The army also reaffirmed calls on Afghanistan’s Taliban to act against militants operating from Afghan soil.

Taliban (Afghan) response

The Taliban government in Kabul has historically denied facilitating militant operations against Pakistan, insisting it does not allow its territory to be used for cross‑border attacks. However, in many past clashes, Pakistan has publicly accused Taliban authorities of tolerating or not acting aggressively enough to curb insurgent groups.