The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Sunday dismissed reports suggesting a military-ordered evacuation of Tirah Valley, calling them fabricated and aimed at spreading fear.

Authorities clarified that any population movement in the area is voluntary and linked to local relief preparations.

The Ministry of Information stated that the federal government and armed forces have not issued any orders to evacuate Tirah Valley. Claims of forced displacement are false, malicious, and intended for personal or political interests.

Authorities emphasized that law enforcement operations in the region target terrorist elements based on intelligence, with full care taken to avoid affecting civilians’ lives.

Provincial measures for voluntary movement

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Relief, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement Department issued a notification on December 26, 2025, allocating Rs. 4 billion for potential temporary and voluntary population movement from some areas of Tirah Valley.

The funds are intended to provide advance preparations for transport, food, cash assistance, temporary accommodation, and registration centers, should residents choose to relocate voluntarily.

Local population’s wishes considered

According to officials, the proposed relocation reflects the wishes of the local population, expressed through a representative jirga at the district level. The process is designed to be voluntary, without the establishment of camps, and takes local weather, administrative facilities, and other factors into account.

The Ministry underscored that any statements linking this relocation to the armed forces are false and defamatory, aiming to malign security institutions for political gain.

Authorities stressed that residents of Tirah Valley are seeking stability and are concerned about the presence of terrorist elements in the area. The government reaffirmed that security operations and relief preparations prioritize civilians’ safety and well-being.