Security forces in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province conducted two major operations in Kurram district and neighbouring border zones on 19 Nov 2025, killing 23 militants linked with the banned Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other insurgent groups. The military statement described the individuals as “Khawarij” — a term used by Pakistan to denote militants allegedly supported from across the Afghan border. The offensives come at a time of heightened cross-border tension, with Islamabad accusing Kabul of sheltering insurgents. The operations also featured a roadside bomb in Dera Ismail Khan that killed two police officers. For Pakistan’s internal security framework, the raids mark a significant escalation in the counter-terror campaign. Diplomatically, the move may deepen strain with Afghanistan and complicate regional stability efforts. At home, the public and private sectors await the ripple-effects: will this translate into safer investment climate, reduced insurgent disruption and improved perceptions of Pakistan’s security environment?
