A fresh wave of violence in Pakistan's tribal belt and Balochistan has brought the military's counter-terrorism strategy under renewed scrutiny. The latest incident, which claimed the life of a 34-year-old army major, underscores the persistent threat posed by banned militant groups despite ongoing operations. Main Developments On Saturday, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that an army officer was martyred during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Razmak area of North Waziristan district. The operation also resulted in the elimination of five terrorists affiliated with Fitna al Khawarij, the state's term for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Major Hafiz Ihsan Elahi, from Mianwali district, was leading his troops from the front when he was killed. The ISPR described him as a brave officer who fought gallantly and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who were reportedly involved in numerous attacks against security forces and civilians. Read also: Why AJK poll tensions could shake Pakistan's coalition In a separate development, security forces killed seven "Indian-sponsored terrorists" during an IBO in Balochistan's Nushki district on the night of July 30-31. Among the dead was a would-be suicide bomber, and the operation targeted a hideout linked to Fitna al Hindustan, a term used for terrorist organisations in Balochistan. The military said ammunition and improvised explosive devices found at the site were destroyed on the spot. Background The recent surge in violence traces back to November 2022, when the TTP ended its ceasefire agreement with the Pakistani government and vowed to increase attacks. Since then, security forces have conducted numerous operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, often resulting in heavy militant casualties. Last month, security forces killed 32 terrorists during operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, according to ISPR. In a separate operation, at least 16 terrorists were killed in Balochistan's Mastung district during "Operation Al-Azm," which followed a shooting on a Karachi-bound coach that left three dead and five injured. The military's strategy is guided by the vision 'Azm-i-Istehkam,' approved by the Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan. This framework aims to eliminate foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism, with a particular focus on cross-border threats. Earlier this week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the government's commitment to completely eradicate proscribed groups like Fitna-al-Hindustan and Fitna-al-Khawarij. Why It Matters These operations come amid a worrying spike in terrorist activity, particularly in Balochistan, where a series of major attacks in early July prompted heightened counterterrorism efforts. The military's response has been aggressive, with Operation Shaban alone killing 91 terrorists between July 5 and July 16, bringing the provincial tally to 129 during that period. The loss of an officer like Major Elahi highlights the human cost of this campaign, even as the state projects resolve. The ISPR's statement emphasised that such sacrifices reinforce the unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation at all costs, a message aimed at both domestic audiences and external adversaries. The designation of "Indian-sponsored" terrorists in Balochistan adds a geopolitical dimension, with the military accusing external actors of fomenting instability. This narrative is central to the state's justification for sustained military operations and its refusal to retreat in the face of threats. What's Next Sanitisation operations are currently underway in both North Waziristan and Nushki to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the areas. The military has pledged to continue its counter-terrorism campaign "at full pace" under the Azm-i-Istehkam vision. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has vowed that the state will not retreat "even an inch" in its fight against terrorism, signalling a continued hardline approach. With the TTP ceasefire still broken and external sponsorship alleged, further clashes are likely as security forces press their advantage. The coming weeks will test whether these operations can stem the tide of violence or if the militants will adapt, prolonging a conflict that has already exacted a heavy toll on soldiers and civilians alike.