ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday dismissed reports of a military operation in Tirah Valley, saying no such operation has taken place in the area for several years and that recent displacement of residents is a routine seasonal phenomenon linked to severe winter conditions.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad alongside Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Information and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Affairs Ikhtiar Wali Khan, Asif said claims about an ongoing operation were based on assumptions and misinformation.

“There has been no operation in Tirah Valley for many years. These are all assumptions,” the defence minister said.

He explained that movement of people from the area occurs every year as residents temporarily relocate due to extreme cold and difficult living conditions during winter.

The minister urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified reports, stressing that the security situation in the area remains stable and under control.

This is a developing story and is being updated accordingly.