Drone strike kills six in North Waziristan

MIRAMSHAH: At least six suspected militants were killed, and three others were injured in a US drone attack in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan on Tuesday evening.

Initial reports suggest that the drone fired two missiles on a vehicle and a residential compound. As a result of the strikes, the vehicle and a portion of a house were destroyed.

The identities of the killed have not been ascertained as yet, but local tribesmen claim that the killed were local and foreign militants.

Pakistan routinely protests against US drone strikes, which have been targeting militants in the tribal areas since 2004, saying they violate its sovereignty and are counterproductive in the fight against terror.

But most analysts believe the resumption of the drone programme after it was suspended at the start of the year — reportedly to give Pakistan space for negotiations with the Taliban — is evidence of collusion between the two countries.

The Islamabad government and military officials strongly deny this.

Pakistan condemns US drone strike in North Waziristan

The government of Pakistan on Tuesday condemned the US drone strike that took place at Dawa Toi, North Waziristan Agency, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Pakistan considers such strikes a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially at a time when authorities are engaged in taking decisive action against terrorist elements in North Waziristan Agency.

“Pakistan demands a cessation of such strikes in future,” the statement adds.