An ambush by Islamist militants on a Pakistani military convoy near the Afghan border on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of nine paramilitary soldiers and two officers, according to security sources. The Pakistani Taliban (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP) claimed responsibility for the deadly attack.
The assault took place in the northwestern district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Security officials reported that the convoy was first hit by roadside bombs before a large number of militants opened fire with guns. The TTP confirmed to a reporter that their fighters carried out the attack.
Rising Tensions and Blame Game
The TTP, a group that seeks to overthrow the government and impose its hardline interpretation of Islamic rule, has significantly stepped up its attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.
The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the strained relations between the two countries. Islamabad routinely accuses the militants of using neighboring Afghanistan as a safe haven to train and plan attacks against Pakistan, a charge that the Kabul government denies.