Pakistan’s war against militancy has entered a new phase. Security forces on Saturday claimed to have gunned down 13 terrorists in Balochistan during Operation Al-Azm as part of the ongoing Khad Kocha operation in the Mastung district. The news brings some relief, mixed with continued anxiety, to families in the region, where militancy has for years shut down life, trade and travel across much of the province.
What Happened in the Most Recent Operation?
The operation was against militants of Fitna al-Hindustan, a group that Pakistani authorities say is backed by India, security sources told Geo News. During the raid, forces destroyed several hideouts and recovered weapons, ammunition and materials used to prepare improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Reports also say some militants were injured trying to get out of the area.This comes after the earlier operation on Wednesday where the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that 10 militants of Fitna al-Khwarij and Fitna al-Hindustan were killed in Mastung and Surab districts while two female suicide bombers were arrested.
Balochistan remains a flashpoint
Why?Balochistan has suffered successive waves of violence, particularly since 2021, when instability across the Afghan border has added to the pressure on Pakistan’s western districts. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently said that more than 90,000 people have died in the country’s fight against terrorism since it began, and he directly identified cross-border sanctuaries as a continuing source of the problem.
For ordinary residents of Mastung, Surab, Kech and neighboring districts, these operations are not distant headlines but something that determines whether markets stay open, children go to school and farmers can safely reach their fields.
What Residents Need to Know
•Do not get carried away by unverified social media posts. Stay updated through official ISPR statements and verified local news.
•Stay away from areas where clearance operations are reported to be active.
•Report any suspicious movement or unattended items to the nearest police or Levies post.
•Save emergency contact numbers on mobile phones, including local Rescue 1122 services.
•Work with security checkpoints, as delays are typically short-term and for public safety.
The government’s response and what happens next
Operations based on intelligence inputs would continue in Balochistan until the militant networks are dismantled, officials said. The federal government has also discussed cross-border militancy with Afghanistan but talks between the two sides have not yielded any lasting agreement so far.
Conclusion
Operation Al-Azm demonstrates the commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to restore stability in Balochistan, but sustained intelligence work, community engagement and diplomatic pressure on cross-border havens will be required to achieve lasting peace in the region. The best way for residents to stay safe during the operation is still to stay informed and alert.
