In clashes in southern Pakistan, 15 militants and 24 armed men were killed. Pakistani army soldiers and paramilitary forces, supported by combat helicopters and artillery, have launched a major new offensive against suspected Al-Qaeda fighters and their local supporters. An army spokesman said the operation began in the early hours of Thursday in the remote tribal area of Waziristan in southern Pakistan. This large ground and air assault follows battles on Tuesday in the region, where 15 militants and 24 armed men, including several foreign fighters, were killed. Pakistani officials say they have detained about 18 suspects. In a separate incident in North Waziristan, suspected militants killed two Pakistani soldiers in an ambush on a military convoy.
15 Militants and 24 Armed Men Killed in Clashes in Southern Pakistan - 2004-03-18
A major military operation in southern Pakistan resulted in the deaths of 15 militants and 24 armed men, including foreign fighters. The Pakistani army, supported by air power, is targeting suspected Al-Qaeda members in Waziristan. This escalation highlights ongoing security challenges in the region.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
A military operation in southern Pakistan led to the deaths of 15 militants and 24 armed men, including foreign fighters. The Pakistani army, with air support, is targeting suspected Al-Qaeda members in Waziristan.
- The operation began in the early hours of Thursday.
- 18 suspects have been detained following the clashes.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The tribal areas of Pakistan have long been a refuge for militants, including Al-Qaeda, making them a target for military operations aimed at restoring security.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translation confidence: 85%