A security official on Friday denied reports of a large-scale military operation in the Tirah region as “propaganda”, saying only intelligence-based operations (IBOs) are under way as part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts.

Briefing media representatives in Karachi on Friday, a security official said there has been no major military offensive in Tirah, rejecting what they described as “false and baseless propaganda” suggesting otherwise.

“Over the past three years, only intelligence-based operations have been conducted against Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan,” the security official said, adding that IBOs remain the most effective method for countering terrorism.

The official said actions against militants are being carried out strictly on the basis of intelligence inputs and will continue until the elimination of the last terrorist.

They also denied any increase in troop deployments in Tirah, saying no new checkpoints have been established and that there were no restrictions on movement into or out of the area. They further added that current weather conditions are not suitable for launching any large-scale military operation.

“The nexus between terrorists and criminal elements has been exposed,” the official said, adding that no narrative could weaken the relationship between the armed forces and the public. They added that all decisions in tribal areas are taken in consultation with local elders and tribal communities, with due consideration given to local conditions and traditions.

Referring to Balochistan, the security official said Fitna al-Hindustan groups were enemies of public welfare and development, adding that the people of the province had recognised militants who exploit grievances and claims of deprivation to justify acts of terrorism.

The briefing concluded with the official reiterating their commitment to counterterrorism operations while maintaining cooperation with local communities.