Tirah Valley (Waziristan), Sep 22: At least 30 people were reported dead after air strikes carried out by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in Tirah Valley of Waziristan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, according to unconfirmed reports on Monday. Eyewitnesses alleged that JF-17 fighter jets dropped bombs on a village without prior warning, leading to heavy casualties and panic among residents.
Reports of civilian casualties
Local sources claimed that the air strikes hit residential areas in Tirah Valley, destroying homes and causing widespread fear. The death toll is expected to rise as several injured victims remain critical. Many of the deceased are believed to be women and children, though official confirmation from the Pakistani authorities has not yet been issued.
The area, located along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, has witnessed frequent clashes between militants and security forces in recent years. However, reports of direct strikes on civilian settlements have sparked concerns about indiscriminate targeting.
Official silence and uncertainty
As of Monday evening, the Pakistan Air Force and the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had not issued a detailed statement on the operation. Security sources suggested that the strikes were aimed at militant hideouts, but local residents insisted that ordinary villagers bore the brunt of the attack.
The lack of clarity has fuelled uncertainty, with human rights activists calling for an independent investigation into the incident. Social organisations have expressed fears that more bodies may still be trapped under the rubble.
Historical context of Tirah Valley conflict
Tirah Valley, part of the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), has long been a stronghold for various militant groups. Pakistan’s military has carried out several large-scale operations in the region over the past decade, including Operation Zarb-e-Azb and Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad, aimed at dismantling insurgent networks.
Despite these operations, the area continues to remain volatile. Civilians in border villages often find themselves caught in the crossfire between militants and state forces. The latest incident has reignited debates over the humanitarian impact of air strikes in conflict zones.
International reactions likely
While international governments had not immediately commented, analysts expect neighbouring Afghanistan and human rights organisations to seek clarification. The United Nations has repeatedly emphasised the need to safeguard civilians during counter-terrorism operations.
South Asia experts warn that such strikes, if confirmed to have caused civilian deaths, may further alienate the local population and intensify anti-state sentiments in the tribal belt.
Calls for accountability
Civil society activists in Pakistan have demanded that the government release a transparent account of the operation, including the criteria for targeting and the steps taken to minimise civilian casualties. Opposition parties may also use the incident to question the federal government’s counter-terrorism strategy.
Residents of Tirah Valley have appealed for immediate medical assistance, food, and shelter for those displaced. Humanitarian organisations working in the province said urgent relief efforts are necessary to prevent further suffering.
Conclusion
The reported deaths of at least 30 people in Tirah Valley underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan in balancing counter-terrorism operations with civilian safety. As details remain unverified, the incident has raised concerns domestically and internationally over the conduct of air strikes in sensitive border areas. Clear communication from the authorities and humanitarian support for victims will be crucial in the coming days.