The temporary evacuation of the population in Tirah has been carried out with the full cooperation of the district administration, local communities, and tribal elders, following long-standing consultations and agreements. Contrary to recent misinformation, there is no plan for a major military operation in the area, though targeted security measures will continue to ensure public safety.
The decision for the temporary evacuation was finalized in a jirga of the Afridi tribes on January 31, 2025, in close coordination with the Chief Minister’s office. Tribal elders and local leaders voluntarily engaged in this process to protect civilians from ongoing threats posed by extremist elements in the region.
The five billion rupees allocated for the evacuation were released under the supervision of the provincial administration to facilitate the safe relocation of residents. While logistical challenges have been reported during the process, authorities are taking steps to improve arrangements at evacuation points. The role of NADRA is strictly administrative, registering citizens to prevent extremists from infiltrating safe areas, not to impede the evacuation.
Local residents, who have long suffered from the presence of terrorists, blackmail, and drug trafficking, voluntarily chose to temporarily vacate the area to safeguard their lives and livelihoods. Statistics indicate that extremists have repeatedly used civilian areas as shields, including drone operations targeting residents, making the evacuation a necessary measure to reduce civilian risk.
The ongoing operation and temporary relocation are state-led, necessary actions against terrorism, not politically motivated measures or acts of reprisal. Security forces are acting responsibly, with the full support of civil administration and tribal leadership, to restore peace and stability in Tirah.
Authorities urge the public and political leadership to fully support security forces in their righteous efforts, as any misinformation or reluctance to take a firm stand against extremists only benefits terrorists and endangers civilians. The priority remains the safety, security, and future of Tirah’s population, with targeted counter-terror measures continuing to protect the region from harm.
This effort reflects a coordinated, transparent, and lawful approach, balancing security requirements with the welfare of the local population and reinforcing the commitment of the state to eliminate extremism in the region.
