At least 22 terrorists reportedly killed as Pakistan strikes terror hideouts in Afghanistan

Pakistan conducted "well-planned and calibrated" aerial strikes on terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan, killing multiple militants belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, the Ministry of Information said on Thursday.

The strikes were carried out as part of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq and Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate terrorists, their networks and supporters, the ministry said in a statement.

It said the strikes were based on credible intelligence and targeted terrorist camps and hideouts at two locations belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij, Fitna al-Hindustan and their affiliates.

"Targets were destroyed with precision," the ministry said, adding that initial reports suggested 22 terrorists had been killed.

Large quantities of weapons and ammunition stored at the hideouts were also destroyed, according to the statement.

"Pakistan has always strived for the maintenance of peace and stability in the region. However, the safety and security of our citizens remains our foremost priority," the ministry said.

It expressed concern that Afghanistan continued to remain a hub of terrorism, adding that the threat to Pakistan emanated from Afghanistan.

"In this context, our action precisely targeted the terrorist hubs," the ministry said, adding that maximum precautions were taken to ensure there was no collateral damage.

The ministry said the country's counterterrorism campaign, Ghazab lil-Haq, being conducted under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam by the security forces and law enforcement agencies, would continue at full pace.

It said the campaign would continue to "wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism" from the country.