Security forces have killed 23 terrorists in multiple intelligence-based operations conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement released on Thursday.

The military’s media wing said the operations were conducted over the last 48 hours in the areas of Datta Khel, Spinwam and Bannu.

“Over the last 48 hours, during the conduct of these series of operations, own troops effectively engaged multiple khwarij locations. Following intense and fierce exchanges of fire, twenty three more khwarij belonging to Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij,” said the ISPR.

Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while Fitna al Hindustan is a term designated by the state for terrorist organisations in Balochistan.

Among those killed was ring leader Jan Meer alias Toor Saqib, said the ISPR, adding that the ring leader’s death will give “a significant blow to the khwarij networks operating in these areas”.

Meer was wanted by security forces, and the government had announced a bounty on him due to his “active involvement in numerous terrorist activities, including the killing of security personnel and innocent civilians”.

The military said that during the sanitisation operations, a series of complex underground tunnels and bunkers used by terrorists were also discovered and destroyed by security forces.

Weapons, ammunition and a large cache of explosives, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were also recovered from the killed terrorists.

“Sanitisation operations continue to eliminate holed up khwarij from these areas, as relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm e Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” said the ISPR.

Despite record militant deaths, Pakistan saw a sharp escalation in militant violence in 2025, with terrorist attacks rising by 34 per cent and terrorism-related fatalities increasing by 21 per cent year on year, according to a report released by the Islamabad-based Pak Institute for Peace Studies.

KP in particular has seen a rise in terrorist attacks in the past year. According to the Annual Security Report 2025 from the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), the province recorded a significant surge in violence last year as “fatalities rose from 1,620 in 2024 to 2,331 in 2025”.

Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil, particularly those linked to the banned TTP. However, officials say those appeals have gone unheeded.

Due to a resurgence of militancy, especially in KP and Balochistan, where attacks often target security personnel and LEAs, the state has intensified counter-terrorism operations.

Security forces killed 22 India-sponsored terrorists in North Waziristan, the military’s media affairs wing said on Tuesday.

Last month, security forces killed 22 terrorists in a joint IBO in KP’s Khyber District, the military’s media wing said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday lauded the “steadfast” Pakistan–China friendship, maintaining that Beijing has supported Islamabad in an “unwavering fashion unmatched in the annals of history”.

The premier was addressing a ceremony in Islamabad to mark the 75th anniversary of Pakistan–China diplomatic relations.

The prime minister began his speech by extending felicitations to the Chinese leadership and people on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan.

“Seventy-five years ago, our founding fathers laid the foundation of our bilateral diplomatic relations,” he said, adding: “Pakistan was the first Muslim country to recognise China and one of the first countries in the world to do so.”

“Through our mutual efforts and endeavours, and above all, sincerity of purpose, we have built a relationship that is second to none and very unique in the world,” he said.

He said that throughout these 75 years, the Chinese leadership and people have stood with Pakistan like a “solid rock”.

“Earthquakes, floods, peace and difficult times — China has always supported Pakistan in an unwavering fashion.”

The premier also reaffirmed that Pakistan has always supported the “One China” policy.

“Till today and forever, we support the One China policy, without fear or favour.”

Shehbaz said that the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), under China’s Belt and Road Initiative of President Xi Jinping, was a “great manifestation” of China’s commitment to support Pakistan, promote its economy, provide jobs, and bring prosperity and development.

Referring to recent efforts to hold peace talks between the United States and Iran, the prime minister said that China had “fully supported” Pakistan’s peace initiative.

“There has been a history of supporting each other without political strings or conditions. China has been a steadfast and trusted friend of Pakistan,” he said, adding that the journey would continue.

He said that in the industrial and technological sectors, China was second to none, emphasising that the “world cannot move forward without China.”

The prime minister also reiterated that the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan was a matter of “paramount importance” for the government.

“We will spare no effort to provide the highest level of security to Chinese nationals.”

‘Cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy’

In his remarks, President Asif Ali Zardari said, “Seventy-five years ago, our two nations began a journey rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations. Today, this journey has evolved into an all-weather, unique strategic cooperation.”

“Pakistan and China have stood by each other through various challenges, safeguarding each other’s core interests,” President Zardari said.

He emphasised that friendship with China is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy, which enjoys “total public, political and institutional support; thus, the relationship enjoys continuity across generations.”

Zardari remarked that President Xi’s initiatives and support for deeper bilateral cooperation had opened new avenues for shared prosperity and regional stability.

President Zardari also thanked the Chinese government for its support in development projects, particularly the Gwadar Port, and termed the CPEC a historic initiative that continues to play a transformative role in Pakistan’s socio-economic progress.

President Asif Ali Zardari, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishq Dar and other leaders were present on the occasion. —

‘Historic task of national rejuvenation’

Meanwhile, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress of China Cai Dafeng, represented the Chinese leadership on the occasion.

“Looking back in history, on May 21, 1951, Pakistan and China formally established diplomatic relations, making Pakistan the first Islamic country to establish diplomatic ties with China,” Dafeng said while addressing the ceremony.

He said that Islamabad and Beijing had together opened a new chapter of mutual “understanding, affinity and integration”.

“For 75 years, we have stayed true to our original aspiration, and that has forged a unique ironclad friendship amid a changing international landscape.”

“Our cooperation carries the amity of our people and demonstrates the true essence of being good neighbours, good friends, good partners, and good brothers,” he said.

He also recalled the Chinese president’s visit to Pakistan in 2015, adding that it had elevated bilateral relations between Pakistan and China to an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership and drawn a blueprint for cooperation between the two countries.

In 2018, he added that the two countries had agreed to build an even closer community with a shared future for a new era.

“At present, both China and Pakistan shoulder the historic task of national rejuvenation. We are both committed to the dream of building prosperous countries.”

Dafeng said that as changes were unfolding like never before, there was a greater need than ever to work closely together.

“China-Pakistan relations are characterised by a high degree of political mutual trust.

“China also firmly supports Pakistan in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity,” he said.

He reaffirmed that China is ready to work with Pakistan to strengthen strategic communication and maintain high-level exchanges, providing timely guidance for the development of bilateral relations.

Dafeng added that China stood ready to work with Pakistan to build CPEC 2.0.

“China stands ready to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, mining and industry, and to expand collaboration further into areas such as IT, digital technology, science and technology, the oceans, green development, and climate change.”

He also supported Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism, expressing hope that Pakistan would continue to take strong and effective measures.

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed on Thursday that Pakistan’s fight against terrorism “will continue with full national resolve” until “enduring peace and stability” were achieved across the country, the military’s media wing said.

CDF Munir made the declaration at an investiture ceremony held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi to confer military awards on officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Army,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

The CDF was the chief guest at the ceremony, where he “conferred awards on the families of shuhada (martyrs), officers and soldiers in recognition of exceptional gallantry in operations and distinguished services rendered to the nation”, the statement said.

It added that awards conferred on the occasion included 50 Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Military) and 12 Tamgha-i-Basalat. “Medals awarded posthumously were received with honour by families of shuhada,” it said.

“Shuhada and Ghazis remain the enduring pride of the nation. Their honour and sacrifice are a sacred trust for every Pakistani. Peace and security of our motherland are owed to their supreme sacrifices and unwavering devotion to duty,” ISPR quoted the army chief as saying at the ceremony.

It added that CDF Munir also “expressed profound admiration for the resilience, dignity and steadfastness demonstrated by the families of shuhada, acknowledging their unparalleled sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the homeland”.

He further appreciated the “operational preparedness and unwavering resolve” of Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies (LEAs).

According to the statement, he also “lauded their sustained efforts against terrorists and reaffirmed that the fight against terrorism will continue with full national resolve until enduring peace and stability are achieved across the country”.

Heatwave conditions are likely to persist across the country from May 25 to May 31, with the mercury expected to touch 50°C in some parts of the country, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said on Thursday.

Pakistan will celebrate Eidul Azha on May 27 (Wednesday), while the federal government has announced a three-day public holiday from May 26-28 (Tuesday to Thursday).

In an advisory, the department predicted that “high pressure is likely to develop in the upper atmosphere on May 25 and likely to strengthen on May 26”, under the influence of which, “moderate to severe” heatwave conditions are expected to develop from May 25 to May 31.

It said the maximum temperature is likely to remain 4-6°C above normal and may rise to 47-50°C in the following districts: Sukkur, Shikarpur, Qambar Shahdadkot, Jacobabad, Larkana, Mohenjo Daro, Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Tharparkar, Badin, Sujawal, Thatta, Hyderabad, Matiyari, Tando Muhamad Khan, Umerkot, Ghotki, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, Mirpurkhas, Jamshoro, Sanghar, Sibbi, Turbat, Panjgur, Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu, Karak, Lakki Marwat, Waziristan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Rahim Yar Khan, Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Bhakkar, Layyah, Kot Addu, Sargodha, Joharabad, Khushab, Mianwali, Noor Pur Thal, Jhang, Toba Tek Sing and Sahiwal.

In Peshawar, Swabi, Nowshera, Mardan, Kohat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Lahore, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Okara, Kasur, Faisalabad, Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber, the temperature is likely to remain 5-7°C above normal, resulting in the mercury rising to 42-45°C.

“Maximum temperature is likely to remain 5-7°C above normal and may rise to 38-40°C in the districts of Malakand, Hazara Division, Gilgit Baltistan, Bagh, Rawalakot, Neelum Valley, Haveli and Sudhanoti,” the department said.

For Karachi, the PMD predicted “very hot weather” with the temperature likely to remain between 35-38°C.

It further stated that nighttime temperatures would rise during the forecast period. It advised the public, particularly women, children, and the elderly, to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary exposure to sunlight and stay hydrated.

“Farmers are advised to manage their crop activities keeping in view the weather conditions and take care of their livestock as well,” it said, advising citizens to exercise judicious use of water and electricity during the forecast period.

On May 4, at least 10 people died across Karachi due to intense heat as the mercury surged to 44.1°C — the highest temperature recorded since 2018 — accompanied by gusts of continental winds that persisted throughout the day, officials said.

Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V on Thursday expressed the desire to continue cooperation with Pakistan in various human development initiatives during a breakfast meeting hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.

Prince Rahim is undertaking his first visit to Pakistan since being named the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last year.

According to a statement by the PMO, the premier warmly welcomed Prince Rahim and appreciated his commitment to fostering peace, stability, and constructive engagement with governments and international partners. The prime minister also assured him of Pakistan’s shared commitment to these ideals.

PM Shehbaz also highlighted the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), and commended the organisation’s contributions in rural development, healthcare, education, disaster resilience, climate adaptation, renewable energy, digital skills training, and youth entrepreneurship, it said.

He particularly appreciated AKDN’s impactful work in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Chitral, especially in remote and vulnerable communities.

“The prime minister encouraged AKDN to deepen and expand its partnership with Pakistan, particularly in GB and Chitral, where the network’s institutional presence and community outreach are highly valued. He also welcomed enhanced engagement with Aga Khan University, noting its major contributions in healthcare and higher education,” the PMO statement added.

Recognising Prince Rahim’s advocacy for environmental stewardship, the prime minister emphasised that AKDN remained a “natural and trusted partner in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience, particularly in glacially vulnerable northern areas”.

The statement added that PM Shehbaz thanked Prince Rahim for visiting Pakistan and assured him that the country would always remain his second home. The premier expressed the hope that his “regular visits would further strengthen the longstanding bonds between Pakistan and the Ismaili community”.

The prime minister also expressed his gratitude to Prince Rahim for his generosity in making the Serena Hotel available on a gratis basis for the Islamabad Talks, it added.

Further, the prime minister extended heartfelt condolences on the passing of Prince Rahim’s father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. He paid tribute to the late Aga Khan’s enduring humanitarian legacy and his longstanding association with Pakistan spanning nearly seven decades.

According to the PMO, PM Shehbaz also presented a commemorative stamp issued by Pakistan Post to honour the late Aga Khan’s services to the country.

Meanwhile, Prince Rahim thanked the prime minister for a warm welcome extended to him and “expressed his desire to continue cooperation with Pakistan in various human development initiatives”.

Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V was named the 50th spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last February, following the death of his father, Prince Karim Al-Husseini Aga Khan IV, in Lisbon at the age of 88.

The Punjab government on Thursday banned multiple activities near airports and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) bases, which may pose a “serious risk” to flight operations and aviation assets, under Section 144 for 30 days.

A notification issued by the Home Department dated May 19 said that, according to reliable sources, certain activities — including pigeon homing, the use of laser lights, and throwing of meat (sadqa) for the consumption of carnivorous birds around air bases and airports — may “pose a serious risk to flight operations and aviation assets”.

It said that there were sufficient grounds to proceed under Section 144 as an “immediate prevention to disturbance of public peace, safety of lives and property of public and tranquility”.

Therefore, the government banned pigeon homing; the use of laser lights by hotels, malls, or shops, etc.; and throwing of meat (sadqa) in open areas or on rooftops.

The Home Department secretary, under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), banned the activities in and around the funnel area of all PAF bases and commercial airports across the province within a 13km radius for a period of 30 days, with immediate effect.

The disposal of meat close to airports during Eidul Azha attracts birds, posing a serious threat to flight safety, passengers and nearby surroundings. Awareness campaigns have been launched in recent years to avoid such incidents.

A wanted terrorist ringleader was killed along with four other militants in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Spinwam area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district, security sources said on Thursday.

As per security sources, Kharji Umar alias Jan Mir alias Tor Saqib had a bounty of Rs3 million on his head. It said that the Fitna al Khawarij ringleader was the mastermind of several attacks on security forces and civilians.

Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan.

The security sources said that he had also laid down a network of underground bunkers, tunnels and explosive traps in the area around Bubali Mosque in Spinwam.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi lauded the security forces for the operation, particularly the elimination of the ringleader, terming it a “major success,” as per a statement issued via the interior ministry.

Naqvi vowed that “terrorists and their facilitators will not be allowed to thrive under any circumstances”.

Earlier this week, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said security forces killed 22 India-sponsored terrorists in North Waziristan.

It added that an area sanitisation operation had been underway since May 17 in North Waziristan’s Shewa general area, “based on credible intelligence leads with respect to the presence of khwarij”.

There has been a resurgence in terrorism in Pakistan, especially in KP and Balochistan, since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021.

Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil, particularly those linked to the banned TTP. Officials say those appeals have gone unheeded.

Last week, a major-ranked officer was among five soldiers martyred during an area sanitisation operation in Balochistan’s Barkhan district.

Due to a resurgence of militancy, especially in KP and Balochistan, where attacks often target security personnel and LEAs, the state has intensified counter-terrorism operations.

Earlier this month, security forces killed five terrorists in two separate engagements in KP’s Tank and Dera Ismail Khan districts. In early April, eight terrorists were killed along the Pak-Afghan border in North Waziristan.

The Foreign Office (FO) on Thursday condemned Israel’s unlawful interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters as well as the arbitrary detention and reported mistreatment of humanitarian workers.

The statement came a day after Israel’s far-right national security minister posted a video showing detained activists from a Gaza-bound flotilla kneeling with their hands tied and foreheads on the ground, sparking international condemnation.

In the statement released on Thursday, the FO said, “The government of Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the unlawful interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla by Israeli occupying forces in the international waters as well as arbitrary detention and reported mistreatment of humanitarian workers onboard.”

The statement said that those detained also reportedly included humanitarian activist Saad Edhi, son of prominent social worker Faisal Edhi and grandson of late philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi.

“Pakistan demands the immediate release of all illegally detained activists. It also calls on the international community to ensure the safety, dignity, and fundamental rights of those detained,” it said.

The FO said it remains in “close contact” with Pakistani diplomatic missions in the region to ensure the safe return of any detained Pakistani nationals.

The Global Sumud Flotilla had set sail from Turkiye last week in the latest attempt by activists to breach Israel’s blockade of the Palestinian territory, after Israeli forces intercepted a previous convoy last month.

Earlier this week, Pakistan and nine other countries issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s interception of the flotilla. The joint statement was issued by the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Turkiye, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Jordan, Libya, Maldives, and Spain.

Israel controls all entry points into Gaza, which has been under an Israeli blockade since 2007.

During the Gaza conflict, sparked by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, the territory has suffered severe shortages of food, medicine and other essential supplies, with Israel at times halting aid deliveries entirely.

A previous flotilla attempt was intercepted last month in international waters off Greece, with most activists expelled to Europe.

Similarly, Israel’s military had halted a flotilla assembled by the same organisation in October last year as well. Israel had also arrested Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and more than 450 participants back then.