In a cowardly terrorist attack in North Waziristan’s Mir Ali area, 13 security forces personnel embraced martyrdom when an explosive-laden vehicle rammed into a convoy, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement on Saturday.

The attack, planned by the terrorist state of India and executed by its proxy Fitna Al Khwarij, targeted a security forces convoy, the statement added.

According to the ISPR, a suicide bomber attempted to detonate himself, but was intercepted by the leading group of the convoy, successfully thwarting his initial plan.

However, in a desperate move, another explosive-laden vehicle was rammed into a security vehicle by the Indian sponsored Kharjis, resulting in the martyrdom of 13 soldiers.

Additionally, three civilians — including two children and a woman — were seriously injured.

Martyred soldiers include, Subedar Zahid Iqbal (45), District Karak; Havaldar Sohrab Khan (39), District Naseerabad; Havaldar Mian Yousaf (41), District Buner; Naik Khitab Shah (34), District Lower Dir; Lance Naik Ismail (32), District Naseerabad; Sepoy Rohail (30), District Mirpur Khas; Sepoy Muhammad Ramzan (33), Dera Ghazi Khan; Sepoy Nawab (30), District Quetta; Sepoy Zubair Ahmed (24), District Naseerabad: Sepoy Muhammad Sahki (31), Dera Ghazi Khan; Sepoy Hashim Abbasi (20), District Abbottabad: Sepoy Muddasir Ejaz (25), District Layyah, and Sepoy Manzar Ali (23), District Mardan.

14 terrorists killed in retaliation operation

In the immediate sanitization operation, security forces tracked and engaged the attackers.

Following a fierce exchange of fire, 14 khwarij were neutralized, the ISPR confirmed.

Operations in the area are ongoing, with security forces determined to eliminate the remnants of the group responsible.

The military reaffirmed that the armed forces, alongside the nation, remain resolute in eradicating Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country.

“The supreme sacrifices of our brave soldiers and innocent civilians only strengthen our resolve to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty and peace at all costs,” the statement added.