In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack in Dera Ismail Khan that claimed the lives of 23 security personnel, Pakistan is contemplating a significant retaliatory action, writes Kamran Yousaf in the Express Tribune. This attack, the deadliest against security forces in recent years, has sparked outrage and prompted calls for decisive measures against the perpetrators.
Official sources indicate that Pakistan is considering “drastic and decisive” actions against the terrorist group responsible for the attack. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that six terrorists launched a coordinated assault on a security forces’ check post, resulting in a heavy exchange of fire and a suicide bombing.
While Pakistan has not yet disclosed specific details about potential retaliatory actions, sources suggest that cross-border strikes and drone attacks targeting terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan are among the options being considered. This comes after Pakistan issued a stern warning to the Afghan Taliban last month, urging them to take concrete steps to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries within their borders.
Following the attack, the Foreign Secretary summoned the Chargé d’Affaires of the Afghan Interim Government to deliver a strong demarche. Pakistan demanded a thorough investigation into the incident, the apprehension and handover of perpetrators and TTP leadership, and decisive action against all terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil.
December 13, 2023
Source; Express Tribune