Hundreds of residents from Tirah Valley have been displaced amid confusion between the federal government and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) authorities over who ordered civilian evacuations ahead of a planned counterterrorism operation, leaving locals stranded during harsh winter conditions.
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As security forces prepare to target militant hideouts in the area, residents have begun leaving their homes. However, both the centre and the KP government have denied responsibility for ordering the evacuation. Federal Information Minister said neither the federal government nor the military instructed civilians to move, adding that counterterrorism operations could be conducted without displacement.
In contrast, KP’s adviser on information stated that the provincial government had not been formally consulted regarding the launch of the operation. Meanwhile, evacuation efforts have been suspended due to bad weather, with further rain and snowfall forecast in coming days.
Observers say the ongoing blame game has worsened the plight of affected families, many of whom are now exposed to freezing temperatures with limited access to shelter and basic services. Local residents have urged authorities to provide immediate assistance, including warm accommodation, food, clean water and healthcare, until they can safely return home.
Security sources indicate that multiple militant groups, including IS-K, the Gul Bahadur group, Lashkar-i-Islam and Jamaatul Ahrar, are believed to be active in Tirah, posing a serious threat to Khyber district and Peshawar. Officials acknowledge that a comprehensive operation is necessary to dismantle these networks and prevent their re-emergence.
Analysts note that while state action appears unavoidable, authorities must ensure lasting security in the region and avoid repeated cycles of displacement. They stress that affected communities, already weary from years of conflict, must be fully supported during the operation and rehabilitation phase.
