Dozens Dead in Cross-Border Attack On Pakistani Forces

Context

Around 24 Pakistani soldiers and three civilians were killed in clashes in northwestern Pakistan after around 200 militants crossed the border from Afghanistan on Wednesday and targeted a security check post, according to a government official. The pre-dawn attack was carried out by men wearing military uniforms. At least 40 attackers were also killed in the fighting which has been going on in a town in the Dir area for 24 hours. Pakistani foreign office has raised the matter with Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Muhammad Umar Daudzai as well as NATO and the US.

There are reports today indicating more militant raids from across the border have occurred. The attacks have taken place when there is growing US pressure on Pakistan to conduct a military operation in North Waziristan. There is no US military presence across the border in Konar province of Afghanistan. Pakistan is likely to use this argument that the militants are using the space to conduct attacks in Pakistan. In the aftermath of the elimination of Osama bin Laden, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had vowed to target Pakistan.