Pakistani Army Officer Freed from Insurgents

Four individuals, including Lt. Col. Khalid Ameer, an army officer, were released by insurgents three days after being kidnapped in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan. Ameer was abducted while at a mosque to mourn his father's passing. The military announced that their 'unconditional release' was facilitated by tribal elders, ensuring the safety of all abductees. No group claimed responsibility for the kidnapping, but video statements indicated the involvement of the Pakistani Taliban, who urged the government to meet unspecified demands. Kidnappings by the Taliban, who have gained strength since the Afghan Taliban's rise to power in 2021, are rare, particularly involving security forces. The military did not disclose the details of the negotiation for their release.