By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan army has 'successfully' completed the first phase of operation in southwestern Balochistan, killing 216 terrorists, the military said on Thursday.

Pakistan’s security forces have concluded Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 in Balochistan after a series of coordinated, intelligence-based operations targeting what the military described as “Indian-sponsored terrorist elements” attempting to destabilize the province,  according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)

, The operation began on Saturday following credible intelligence about the presence of militants posing an imminent threat to civilians. Initial actions were launched on January 29 in Panjgur and the outskirts of Harnai district, where security forces struck suspected hideouts and killed 41 militants allegedly linked to Indian proxy networks, it said in a statement.

The military said subsequent attacks by groups it referred to as “Fitna al Hindustan” were thwarted through aggressive responses, prompting a broader campaign across multiple areas. These efforts focused on dismantling sleeper cells through sustained combing and clearance operations carried out jointly by security forces, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence units.

ISPR stated that a total of 216 militants were killed during the operation, significantly weakening the leadership, command-and-control structures, and operational capabilities of the networks involved. Authorities also reported recovering a large cache of foreign-origin weapons, explosives, and equipment, with preliminary assessments suggesting “systematic external facilitation and logistical support.”

The operation, however, came at a heavy cost. Officials said 36 civilians, including women and children, were killed, while 22 security personnel lost their lives in the line of duty. The military paid tribute to the fallen, calling their sacrifice a reflection of the highest traditions of service and reaffirming national solidarity with the victims’ families.

Pakistan has repeatedly accused India of supporting militant groups to undermine peace and development in Balochistan—an allegation New Delhi has consistently denied in the past.

The armed forces reiterated their commitment to eliminating terrorism under the government’s National Action Plan, emphasizing that counterterrorism operations will continue “with full determination” until all threats are neutralized.

Military officials described Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 as a testament to the resolve of Pakistan—and particularly the people of Balochistan—to prioritize peace, unity, and development over violenc