Army Thwarts Terror Plot in Mastung, Two Soldiers Martyred

Two Pakistan Army personnel, including a major, were martyred during a Mastung operation that neutralized three terrorists affiliated with the Indian-sponsored group “Fitna al Hindustan,” according to the military’s media wing. The intelligence-based operation (IBO) was conducted on July 23 in Balochistan’s Mastung district following confirmed reports of terrorist presence.

Major Leads from the Front

During the operation, Major Zeeyyad Salim Awal, 31, of Khushab district, lost his life while courageously leading his troops. His leadership in the field reflected the army’s tradition of front-line command. Alongside him, Sepoy Nazam Hussain, 22, from Jhelum district, also embraced martyrdom in the line of duty.

Both soldiers paid the ultimate price to protect the country from the growing threat of terrorism originating from hostile actors outside Pakistan’s borders.

Three Militants Killed

As security forces moved in on the suspected hideout, a heavy exchange of fire broke out between the troops and militants. The military responded with precision and force, eliminating three terrorists on the spot. All of them were confirmed to be associated with the group “Fitna al Hindustan,” which Pakistan’s security agencies have linked to Indian intelligence networks.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the success of the mission in neutralizing key elements of the group operating in the region.

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Elimination of External Threats

The ISPR emphasized that the operation is part of a broader counter-terrorism strategy aimed at eliminating foreign-backed threats. According to the statement, security forces are now conducting a thorough sanitisation operation in Mastung to ensure no additional terrorists remain in hiding.

“Such operations reaffirm the commitment of Pakistan’s armed forces to root out the menace of Indian-sponsored terrorism,” said the military’s statement. The statement also underlined that every drop of blood shed by the country’s soldiers only strengthens national resolve.

Indian Proxy Network Under Watch

Pakistan has long accused India of sponsoring terror networks operating in Balochistan and other border regions. The Mastung incident is the latest in a series of operations targeting groups alleged to have Indian links. The name “Fitna al Hindustan” reflects Pakistan’s framing of these proxy actors as extensions of regional hostility.

This group, though relatively new to public discourse, has emerged in ISPR statements as a growing threat—one believed to be working toward destabilizing Balochistan and undermining national security through targeted acts of sabotage and violence.

A Pattern of Sacrifice

The loss of Major Zeeyyad and Sepoy Nazam adds to the list of soldiers who have given their lives to ensure peace in Balochistan. Their martyrdom is a reminder of the persistent dangers faced by troops on the front lines of counterterrorism efforts.

This year alone, multiple operations across South Waziristan, Dera Ismail Khan, and Balochistan have led to both successful eliminations of high-value targets and tragic losses among Pakistani soldiers.

The military continues to highlight these operations as proof of progress in combating terrorism, even as new threats emerge from foreign-sponsored militant networks.

Continued Operations Expected

Security experts predict more IBOs in the coming weeks, especially as intelligence reports suggest increased movement of armed groups along the Afghan and Iranian borders. Balochistan remains a key flashpoint in the regional security landscape, and Pakistan’s military leadership has consistently signaled its readiness to respond with force.

“The mission to ensure peace and stability in Balochistan is far from over,” a senior security official noted. “Each operation, no matter how small, is a step toward restoring long-term peace.”

Honoring the Fallen

Tributes poured in from across the country for Major Zeeyyad and Sepoy Nazam. Military officials, civil leaders, and citizens lauded their bravery. Their funerals, expected to be held with full military honors, will be attended by senior officers and family members.

The army’s unwavering resolve in the face of sacrifice continues to define its campaign against terrorism. While threats persist, the nation stands united behind its soldiers—determined not to let their sacrifices go in vain.