Security Forces Debunk False Terror Claims in Bajaur

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On August 8, 2025, security sources in Pakistan rejected recent reports suggesting that local tribes in Bajaur district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, were engaged in negotiations with foreign-backed militants. According to Aaj English TV, officials described these claims as inaccurate and said they were intended to misrepresent the security situation in the area.

Security sources stated that a number of the militants, referred to by authorities as “khawarij,” are Afghan nationals who are reportedly hiding among the local population and involved in terrorist and criminal activities. This information was also reported by Lead Pakistan.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, has outlined a three-step strategy in coordination with tribal elders to address the presence of foreign militants. First, tribal elders are being asked to expel such individuals from the area. Second, if this is not possible, elders may temporarily vacate the area for one to two days to allow security forces to conduct targeted operations. Third, if neither option is implemented, the state will proceed with operations while taking measures to minimize harm to civilians, according to Samaa TV.

Officials have emphasized that there will be no negotiations with militants or their facilitators unless they completely surrender to state authority. They reiterated that only the state holds the right to carry arms and conduct armed operations, as reported by Khyber News.

A tribal jirga was recently convened in Bajaur as a security precaution before any potential military action. Security sources said this step was aimed at ensuring the safety of residents while enabling an effective response to militant activity. They also noted that no concessions would be granted to individuals or groups opposing the state or its laws.

This position is consistent with previous security operations in the region. On October 23 and 24, 2024, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in Bajaur in which nine militants were killed, including two suicide bombers and a high-value target identified as Said Muhammad, also known as “Qureshi Ustad.” According to The News International, Dawn, and Geo News, weapons, ammunition, and explosives were recovered during the raid.

Officials have stated that the strategy in Bajaur is part of a broader effort to ensure public safety, remove foreign militants, and reinforce state authority. The approach combines cooperation with local tribal leaders where possible and direct security operations where necessary.