Munir’s army faces setback as TTP strikes strategic bridges, warns against reconstruction | Pakistan

TTP attacks bridges, warns against reconstruction

Days after destroying the Shewa Bridge in North Waziristan, a key route used by the Pakistan Army for troop movements and logistics, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has warned against any attempts to rebuild it, local sources told News18. The militant group also targeted another bridge in Khushhali in Mir Ali Tehsil on Saturday night.

“As a result of the explosion, the bridge suffered severe damage, which affected the movement of the local population. After Shewa Bridge, which was blown up last Wednesday, this is the second consecutive attack on strategic assets of Pakistan,” said intelligence sources.

They added, “This is TTP’s massive winter offensive to paralyse Pakistan military’s movement in tribal areas. The supply lines and communication have been cut off.”

Locals in Shewa said their jirga, a traditional council of elders convened to resolve disputes in Pashtun culture, met with TTP leaders in the area. The militants reportedly admitted to carrying out the Shewa Bridge attack.

According to a jirga member, the militants had planned the IED blast seven months ago. “TTP fighters have threatened the local jirga, warning they will target anyone who tries to rebuild the bridge,” the member said.

Last Wednesday, the TTP blew up the Shewa Bridge, which served as a crucial supply line for Pakistan security forces in the tribal areas and along the Durand Line. It was a main route for military deployments in North and South Waziristan and key border checkpoints with Afghanistan.

“The Shewa Bridge connects Shewa Tehsil to Kurram, Hangu, Bannu, Karak, South Waziristan, and borders Afghanistan to the west,” intelligence sources said.

Pakistan security forces are reportedly conducting multiple operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa every day. “Lack of connectivity will create problems for the Pakistan military in North and South Waziristan districts. Pakistan is already facing huge challenges along the escalating Durand Line, and now the Shewa Bridge collapse will put all military operations in serious trouble,” the sources added.