Bajur District – Pakistan has initiated a concentrated counter terrorism operation in the Bajaur district, with the view of disabling the operational capability of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) elements and its affiliates. This focused operation is in response to increasing insecurity along and beyond the border by militants of both Afghan-origin and foreign nationalities.
The operation has already produced good results, with reports suggesting high militant casualties. Funerals of seventeen TTP-Bajaur militants and twelve Afghan-origin fighters were observed across Kunar, Nangarhar, and Kunduz provinces. The fact that five of the foreign fighters who were killed were of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan origin also reflects the transnational character of the militant threat, further evidencing the complexity of the challenge Pakistan has to take in ensuring regional stability.
Although the operations have been successful, the counter-terrorism process has been momentarily disabled by harsh weather conditions, as well as the increasing division within the TTP itself. The verbal clashes among the local Pakistani Taliban and Afghan militants signify the diminishing group cohesion and unit of operations, which may have a long-term effect on the militant network.
Following these losses, TTP Commander Mufti Bilal is said to be trying to re-form the scattered militants and inspire them to re-join the fight. According to sources, Bilal is actively spreading lies and exaggerated claims of success against the Pakistani forces, especially about the initial stages of the operation. Eliminating Mufti Bilal is a key priority since he is the head of propaganda and recruiting efforts and remains a possible threat point in this terrorist network. His removal would be a big blow to morale and command of the TTP.
Pakistan has stressed that the counter-terrorist operation in its region is well within its national borders and purely counter-terrorist in its scope. This position is held regardless of continued propaganda supporting activities across borders. Pakistan has emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Afghanistan, although existing TTP safe havens across borders pose a major threat to national security. Moreover, the involvement of foreign fighters proves that TTP is a part of an extensive extremist network, so the counter-terrorism initiatives of Pakistan are important in ensuring the safety and peace in the region.
