Pakistan's security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, eliminating a "high-profile terrorist" identified as Surat Gul alias Saifullah, a commander of the Daesh (ISIS) terror group. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the operation in a press release, stating that Gul was "actively involved in numerous terrorist activities, including targeted killing of innocent civilians, extortion, and was highly wanted by law enforcement agencies."

The operation, which involved intense fire exchange, resulted in the neutralization of Gul and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and explosives. "Sanitization operation is being conducted to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area," the ISPR added, highlighting local support for the operation and their "full support to eliminate the menace of terrorism."

This incident follows a worrying trend of escalating violence in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Last week, two militants, including a senior commander, were killed in North Waziristan. Just days before, a pre-dawn attack on a police station in Dera Ismail Khan claimed the lives of 10 police officers. These events underscore the complex security challenges Pakistan faces.

According to a Centre for Research and Security Studies report, 2023 saw a record-high number of violence-related fatalities and injuries in Pakistan, primarily concentrated in KP and Balochistan. The report attributes this increase to the banned militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ending its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

While the elimination of high-profile figures like Gul represents a significant blow to terrorist groups, it's crucial to acknowledge the wider context and ongoing struggle against extremism. Sustained efforts are needed to address the root causes of terrorism, including poverty, lack of education, and social marginalization. Additionally, regional cooperation and intelligence sharing are vital to dismantling terror networks and preventing future attacks.