Thirteen Security Personnel Killed in Suicide Attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

A suicide attack in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province resulted in the deaths of at least 13 security personnel and injuries to three others, according to the military's media wing. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated, "In a cowardly attack, planned and orchestrated by terrorists, a security forces convoy was targeted today in the general area of Mir Ali, North Waziristan district."

The attack occurred when a suicide bomber drove an explosives-laden vehicle into a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle of the Bomb Disposal Unit in Khaddi village. Fourteen civilians, including women and children, were injured, with some reported to be in critical condition. A curfew was already in place due to ongoing military movement, security sources indicated.

Security Situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Following the explosion, security agencies initiated a rescue operation. The militant group Usud al-Harb, affiliated with the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, claimed responsibility for the attack. Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, condemned the attack, stating, "We salute the brave security personnel and their families who have sacrificed their lives for the nation."

This incident is considered one of the deadliest in North Waziristan recently and has heightened concerns about regional security. Pakistan has experienced an increase in terrorist activities, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces. This surge followed the breakdown of a ceasefire between the government and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan in November 2022.

Rising Terrorism Concerns

The number of militant attacks and counter-terrorism operations increased significantly by March 2025. According to a report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, terrorist incidents surpassed 100 for the first time since November 2014. Pakistan ranked second on the Global Terrorism Index 2025, with terror-related deaths rising by 45% over the past year to 1,081.

The recent attack underscores ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan in combating terrorism. The situation remains tense as authorities work to address security threats and prevent further incidents. Efforts continue to stabilise affected regions and ensure safety for civilians and security personnel alike.

With inputs from PTI