Pakistan Army Major and Soldier Killed in Mastung Operation Against Terrorists

In a significant military engagement, a Pakistan Army major and a soldier were killed during an intelligence-based operation in the Mastung district of Balochistan on July 23, 2025. The operation, which targeted terrorists affiliated with the Indian-backed group "Fitna al Hindustan," resulted in the death of three militants, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Major Zeeyyad Salim Awal, aged 31, who hailed from Khushab district, was leading his troops at the frontline when he was martyred. Alongside him, Sepoy Nazam Hussain, 22, from Jhelum district, also lost his life during the fierce exchange of fire. The military authorities have initiated a sanitization operation in the area to ensure the elimination of any remaining threats posed by Indian-sponsored terrorists.

The ISPR reported that the operation was launched following credible intelligence regarding terrorist presence in the region. "During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location, and resultantly, three terrorists were sent to hell," the statement read. This military action underscores Pakistan's ongoing struggle against what it describes as Indian-sponsored terrorism, an assertion that has been a point of contention in the region.

Dr. Ahmed Ali Khan, a senior analyst at the Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies, noted that the ongoing conflict in Balochistan is deeply rooted in historical grievances and geopolitical tensions between Pakistan and India. "The region has been a hotspot for various militant groups, and the involvement of external actors complicates the security landscape significantly," he stated in an interview on July 24, 2025.

The Pakistani military's operations in Balochistan have intensified in recent months, aiming to dismantle the networks of various insurgent groups. According to a report published by the International Crisis Group in May 2025, Balochistan has witnessed a resurgence of violence, with increased activity from groups allegedly receiving support from India. The report emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses military concerns but also the socio-economic development of the region.

While the ISPR's statements reflect a strong resolve to combat terrorism, analysts have raised concerns about the long-term implications of such military operations. "While immediate threats must be addressed, a sustainable solution requires engagement with local communities and addressing their grievances," said Dr. Saira Noor, a political science professor at Quaid-i-Azam University, during a discussion on July 24.

The loss of Major Awal and Sepoy Hussain has sparked national mourning, with military officials and citizens alike paying tribute to their bravery. The Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, expressed condolences and reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating terrorism from Pakistan.

As the situation unfolds, the Pakistani government continues to face criticisms regarding its handling of domestic security issues and its claims of foreign interference in Balochistan. The ongoing discourse between Pakistan and India regarding terrorism and regional stability remains tense, with both nations accusing each other of sponsoring militant activities.

The implications of this recent incident extend beyond immediate military concerns; they raise questions about national security policies, regional stability, and the need for dialogue to address underlying issues that contribute to ongoing violence in Balochistan. Moving forward, it is crucial for the Pakistani government to pursue strategies that encompass both military action and diplomatic engagement to foster a more secure and stable environment in the region.