ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar strongly condemned the reported targeting of civilians in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Bajaur district, terming it a reflection of a barbaric mindset and an unacceptable act against innocent human life.
In a statement, Tarar said that the deliberate targeting of civilian populations, including women and children, was inhuman and insidious, adding that such actions expose the perpetrators’ disregard for basic human values. He alleged that elements operating from across the border were involved in attacks on unarmed civilians.
Referring to details shared by local authorities, the minister said that at least nine civilians, including women and children, lost their lives, while 12 others were injured in what he described as unprovoked attacks in Bajaur. He further noted that in a separate incident, three civilians sustained injuries in a quadcopter strike while playing cricket.
Attaullah Tarar maintained that Pakistan’s security forces have effectively countered militant elements on the ground, and that such attacks on civilian areas indicate an attempt to target soft populations instead of confronting security forces.
He also rejected allegations regarding Pakistan’s conduct, stating that the country’s operations are directed solely against militant infrastructure and are carried out with utmost care to avoid civilian harm.
He emphasized that information regarding such actions is shared transparently with the public.
The minister reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to continue its efforts against militancy and those supporting it, stressing that the protection of civilian lives remains a top priority.
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