RAWALPINDI – 11 Pakistani soldiers were martyred and 12 militants killed after a terrorist attack targeted a joint security forces check post in Bajaur on 16 February 2026, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed.
Read More: Two military officers among 11 soldiers martyred in Orakzai
According to the ISPR, the assailants, described as Indian-sponsored terrorists, attempted to breach the check post’s security but were swiftly neutralized by Pakistan’s vigilant troops. The response of the security forces prevented a larger-scale attack and led to the elimination of 12 militants during engagements.
During the attack, the militants used an explosive-laden vehicle to ram into the perimeter wall of the check post. The blast caused significant damage to the infrastructure and resulted in the martyrdom of eleven soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
#ISPR
Rawalpindi, 17 February, 2026On 16 February 2026, a cowardly terrorist attack was attempted on Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies Joint Check Post in Bajaur District, #Pakistan by Khwarij belonging to #India Proxy, Fitna al Khwarij.
The assailants sought to… pic.twitter.com/8QkRT2mI3x
— Pakistan Armed Forces News 🇵🇰 (@PakistanFauj) February 17, 2026
Tragically, nearby civilian residences were also affected. One young girl lost her life in the explosion, while seven others, including women and children, sustained injuries. The incident underscores the indiscriminate nature of terrorist attacks and the risks faced by security personnel and civilians alike.
ISPR confirmed that sanitization operations are ongoing in the area to detect and eliminate any remaining militants. These operations form part of the broader counter-terrorism campaign under Pakistan’s “Azm-e-Istehkam” initiative, approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan. The campaign aims to eradicate foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism across the country.
In a statement, ISPR paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers and reaffirmed the commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to safeguarding the nation. “The sacrifices of our brave soldiers and innocent civilians further reinforce our unwavering commitment to protecting our country at all costs,” it said.
Read More: Soldiers martyred as Pakistan kills 3 terrorists in Mastung
The attack in Bajaur highlights the persistent threat posed by cross-border terrorism and the ongoing efforts of Pakistan’s security forces to maintain peace and stability in vulnerable regions.