Web Desk: State authorities say security operations in the Tirah Valley are being carried out through intelligence-based actions rather than large-scale military offensives, pushing back against what they describe as political misinformation surrounding civilian displacement and counterterrorism efforts.
Officials and local elders say the strategy emerged after months of consultations aimed at dismantling militant networks while limiting civilian harm in the mountainous region near the Afghan border.
Due to its rugged geography, Tirah had gradually become a hub for militant activity, security officials say, with several high-profile attacks traced back to the area. Authorities allege that armed groups established links with Afghan Taliban factions and narcotics networks, eventually forming what officials describe as a terrorism–crime nexus that benefited from political protection.
As militant influence expanded, security forces intensified intelligence-based operations, or IBOs. However, officials said the presence of militants within populated areas raised concerns over potential collateral damage.
To address those risks, local administrators convened multiple jirgas with tribal elders to explore options for neutralising militant threats without harming civilians. Elders were given several months to propose solutions, including persuading militants to leave the area voluntarily.
When those efforts failed, elders proposed a temporary relocation of residents during security operations, officials said. The plan, authorities emphasised, originated from the jirga process rather than the military.
After further consultations at the provincial level, tribal representatives formally conveyed their willingness to relocate on Dec. 26, 2025, citing safety concerns and long-term stability.
Based on that decision, the provincial government approved 4 billion rupees to support displaced families. However, officials and local sources acknowledge the funds were not administered effectively, leading to delays and hardship for residents.
In the Bagha Maidan area alone, around 19,000 families were slated for relocation. Authorities say roughly 65% have moved so far, while the remainder have stayed behind, largely due to agricultural considerations.
Officials stress no deadlines were imposed by security forces, adding that timelines were left to community leaders to accommodate crop harvesting and other local needs.
Pakistan’s military says it has no plans for a full-scale operation in Tirah, arguing that intelligence-based actions have proven effective nationwide.
According to official figures, security forces conducted more than 75,000 IBOs in 2025, resulting in the deaths of nearly 2,600 militants. Military officials say enhanced surveillance and precision-strike capabilities have reduced the need for broader offensives.
They also point to the absence of large troop deployments typically seen before major operations as evidence that no mass action is planned. Harsh weather conditions in Tirah further limit the feasibility of such campaigns, officials add.
Instead, operations fall under what authorities describe as the Bagha Joint Action Plan, combining kinetic actions with development initiatives, law enforcement expansion and eventual resettlement of displaced families.
The government has accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of distorting the situation for political gain, alleging it misrepresented the jirga-led relocation as a military-imposed displacement.
Officials say mismanagement of relocation funds under the previous provincial administration worsened civilian suffering and allowed political actors to frame the crisis as a humanitarian failure caused by the federal government and armed forces.
Security officials argue that militant-linked criminal networks have historically opposed counterterrorism efforts, claiming such operations threaten their financial and political interests.
They also allege coordinated social media campaigns and foreign-backed narratives have amplified misleading claims to undermine state institutions.
PTI has previously rejected accusations of deliberate misinformation. The party has not issued a fresh response to the latest statements.
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