Clashes near Afghan border kill 19 soldiers, 45 militants in Pakistan

PESHAWAR, Pakistan: Pakistani security forces have carried out three major raids against Pakistani Taliban hideouts near the Afghan border in recent days, triggering fierce clashes that left 19 soldiers and 45 militants dead, the military announced Saturday.

The heavy toll highlights the challenge Pakistan faces in tackling a surge in militant violence. According to the military, the first raid took place in the