PESHAWAR: Pakistan’s military yesterday killed 23 militants in air strikes on hideouts in the country’s restive northwest, where the army has launched an offensive against Taliban insurgents, officials said.
Pakistan began a long-awaited push to clear militant bases from North Waziristan in June after a bloody attack on Karachi airport finally sank faltering peace talks with the rebels. Air strikes, artillery, mortars and ground troops have been used to retake territory in the tribal area.
“The 23 militants were killed in precise aerial strikes on hideouts in Bangidar area of Ghulam Khan in North Waziristan,” a security official said. The military said the major towns of Miranshah and Mir Ali have now been cleared of insurgents. AFP
