14 Militants Killed in North Waziristan as Pakistan Army Targets Indian-Backed Terror Network

Rawalpindi:In a major counter-terrorism operation, **Pakistan’s security forces** eliminated **14 militants** affiliated with the outlawed group **Fitna al-Khawarij** in **Datta Khel, North Waziristan**, the military’s media wing **ISPR** confirmed on Tuesday.

According to the **Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)**, the operation was **intelligence-based**, launched after reports of **the presence of foreign-sponsored terrorists** in the area.

The operation resulted in a **fierce exchange of gunfire**, during which 14 militants were successfully neutralized. The targeted compound was reportedly part of a **network supported by India**, ISPR said.

> “A hideout of militants operating under Indian patronage was effectively struck,” the statement noted, adding that a **clearance operation is ongoing** to ensure the region is fully secured.

ISPR reiterated the resolve of **Pakistan’s security forces** to **eliminate Indian-sponsored terrorism** from the country and safeguard national sovereignty.

The successful operation is part of Pakistan’s broader campaign to dismantle **foreign-backed militant infrastructure**, particularly in border regions vulnerable to cross-border terrorism.