The security forces have eliminated nine militants in a clearance operation after a terrorist attack on Pakistan Air Force's (PAF) Mianwali Training Air Base was thwarted in a swift response by the troops, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Saturday. The air base was targeted by militants earlier on Saturday,  however, the security forces foiled the attack and launched an operation to eliminate any potential threat in the surroundings. "Alhumdolliah, the combing and clearance operation at PAF Training Airbase Mianwali has been concluded and all nine terrorists have been sent to hell," said the military's media wing.

The statement added that the clearance operation was launched to eliminate any potential threat following the cowardly and failed terrorist attack on the base this morning. "No damage has been done to any of the PAF’s functional operational assets, while only some damage was done to three already phased-out non-operational aircraft during the attack," added the statement. ISPR further said that the prompt and professional conclusion of the operation serves as a stark reminder to all enemies of peace that PAF remains vigilant and is fully capable of defending the homeland from any threat.

PM commends security forces Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar commended the security forces, saying that the valiant PAF has proven its mettle by thwarting the terrorist attack once again. "The valiant Pakistan Air Force has once again proven its mettle by thwarting a cowardly terrorist attack in Mianwali. Any attempt to undermine our security will meet with unwavering resistance. The nation stands with you and we salute your courage and resolve," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Former PM Shehbaz Sharif condemned the terror attack, saying that these repeated attacks reveal our enemies’ desperation, but the country stands resilient. "Our forces are vigilant, united to defeat terrorism. We’re determined to preserve peace and stability. Prayers for the affected families and our brave security personnel," he added.

14 soldiers martyred in terrorist attack A day earlier, 14 soldiers were martyred in a terrorist attack on two vehicles carrying security forces in Gwadar. The incident occurred when the security convoy was moving from Pasni to Ormara in Gwadar district. ISPR said that a sanitisation operation was being carried out in the area and perpetrators of "this heinous act will be hunted down [and] brought to justice".

Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani strongly condemned the terrorist attack. "Such acts are utterly reprehensible. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the martyred and injured. Pakistan stands resolute against terrorists," he said in a post on X.

 
Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)