Pakistan: Suicide bombers attack Mianwali Airbase, 3 terrorists killed
What's the story
Heavily armed suicide bombers attacked the Mianwali Training Air Base of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in Pakistan's Punjab late Friday night, per Reuters. However, the PAF reportedly claimed that they had thwarted the attack and killed three terrorists before they could infiltrate the airbase. Reports said the Taliban-linked group Tehreek-e-Jihad claimed responsibility for the attack.
Details
Several planes parked inside Air Force base destroyed: Reports
According to reports, the terrorists were heavily armed and used a ladder to climb the fortified wall of the airbase and infiltrate. Several planes stationed within the Air Force installation were reportedly destroyed in the terrorist strike. Pakistan Army officials confirmed the attack and the extent of damage to the planes. However, they termed it a failed terror attempt.
Statement
Pakistan Army confirms attack, damage to 3 'grounded' aircraft
Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said, "On Nov 4, 2023, in the early hours of the day, Mianwali Training Air Base of Pakistan Air Force came under a failed terrorist attack which, Alhumdollilah, due to the swift and effective response by the troops, has been foiled." It confirmed the killing of three terrorists and damage to three "already grounded" aircraft.
History
Fourth attack in Pakistan in days: Report
This is reportedly the fourth such attack in Pakistan in as many days, Dawn.com. On Friday, five people were killed and at least 24 injured, including police officials, in a blast in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Earlier, similar blasts took place in Lakki Marwat of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and in Balochistan's port city Gwadar, killing over a dozen security personnel.
Facts
Strongly condemn the cowardly terrorist attack: Former PM Sharif
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took to X to condemn the "cowardly terrorist attack on the Pakistan Air Force base in Mianwali." "These repeated attacks reveal our enemies' desperation, but we stand resilient. Our forces are vigilant, united to defeat terrorism. We're determined to preserve peace and stability. Prayers for the affected families and our brave security personnel," he wrote.
Figures
Steep spike in terror attacks in Pakistan
Pakistan has reportedly witnessed a sudden spike in terror attacks since July. Earlier this month, the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) recorded a 79% increase in terror attacks in the first six months of 2023 compared to 2022. Nearly 271 terrorist attacks were carried out during the first half of the year, killing 389 people and injuring 656 others.