In a tragic escalation of violence, a deadly assault on a military base in northwestern Pakistan on the evening of March 4 has left at least 18 people dead and 42 others wounded, according to reports from the Associated Press (AP). The militant group Jaish Al-Fursan, an affiliate of the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), has claimed responsibility for the attack, which unfolded in the city of Bannu, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The attack marks one of the deadliest incidents in the region in recent months, underscoring the persistent threat of insurgency and the challenges facing Pakistan’s security forces.

The attack began in a highly coordinated manner when two suicide bombers detonated explosive-laden vehicles against the perimeter wall of the military base, creating a breach that allowed additional militants to storm the compound. This tactic, commonly used by insurgents to penetrate fortified locations, resulted in an intense and prolonged gunfight between the attackers and security forces.

According to official military statements, the confrontation resulted in the deaths of five soldiers and 16 insurgents. However, the impact extended beyond the military compound, as the powerful explosions caused significant damage to surrounding civilian infrastructure, including a nearby mosque, where the collapsing roof trapped worshippers inside. Tragically, the mosque’s imam was among those recovered from the rubble.

The timing of the attack appeared deliberate, occurring shortly after sunset when many residents were breaking their fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The insurgents likely exploited this moment of reduced........

© Blitz