Zarb-e-Azb updates: Registration of IDPs continues in Peshawar

400 terrorists have been killed while 130 have been injured in the operation so far.

Internally displaced persons fleeing a military operation against militants in the North Waziristan tribal agency carry relief supplies received from a World Food Programme (WFP) distribution point in the neighbouring town of Bannu on June 27, 2014. PHOTO: AFP

RAWALPINDI / ISLAMABAD / BANNU / PESHAWAR / KARACHI / MIRAMSHAH: After a long period of speculation, which also included attempts at peace talks, Pakistan on June 15 launched a military operation against militants in the troubled North Waziristan agency of Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata).

On its 15th day, a new phase of the offensive began, with the military launching a ground operation in Miramshah – the main town of North Waziristan.

As the Pakistan Army embarks on this critical mission, get all the updates of the operation, code-named Zarb-e-Azb, here.

All stories relating to Zarb-e-Azb can be found on this trend page as well.

Below is an interactive Google map of North Waziristan, which follows the Zarb-e-Azab Operation, and will be updated as information flows in. Navigate military strikes and areas of influence from the key on the left. To get details of individual attacks, hover over the pins and click them. Zoom in for a closer look, change the display type or switch extra layers off . The yellow pins mark recent drone strikes that have occurred in the region, while blue pins mark suicide attacks.

July 11, 2:14pm

The registration of IDPs continued in Peshawar for a fifth day, Express News reported.

Below is a video of one of the ammunition factories seized by Pakistan Army during the military operation.

July 10, 7:11pm

Pakistan reiterated on Thursday that the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) of North Waziristan was an internal matter and it had not asked for any international assistance.

“We have very clear instructions from the prime minister [to not seek external assistance],” Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam said during her weekly press briefing.

For the full story, read here.

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July 10, 6:50pm

DG ISPR said on Twitter that the tribesmen of North Waziristan do not want militants to return to their area, and added that the state will not allow them to return.

July 10, 2:30pm

The ISPR released a photo on Thursday of Chairman Fauji Foundation Lieutenant General (retd) Muhammad Mustafa Khan presenting a cheque of Rs150 million to the COAS at the General Headquarters yesterday for the IDPs of the North Waziristan agency.

PHOTO: ISPR

July 10, 11:30am

Meanwhile, a drone strike in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan killed seven people and injured three others.

For more details, read the full story here.

July 10, 9:50am

Almost a month after Operation Zarb-e-Azb was formally started in mid June, the army allowed local and international media to visit Miramshah in North Waziristan, main centre for militants.

During a media briefing, DG ISPR Maj-Gen Bajwa said that they had also discovered the under ground tunnels that the militants had constructed in the area.

“This [Miramshah] was one of their major base, we have dislodged them from here and now they on the run,” said Bajwa.

Read the full story here.

July 9, 10:32pm

Militant leader Hafiz Gul Bahadur will be immediately eliminated if spotted, said Major General Zafarullah Khan, the general officer commanding 7th infantry division Miramshah, The Express Tribune has learnt.

Read here for the full story.

July 9, 6:10pm

Eighty per cent of Miramshah has been cleared of terrorists, according to the operation commander, Express News reported

Lal Masjid’s Abdul Rasheed Ghazi ’s will has been found in the area.

Eleven factories producing explosive materials have been discovered as well as 23 tons of explosive material

Over 400 militants have been killed in the operation so far, and according to ISPR, no resident of the area has been killed.

July 9, 3:30pm

Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Chaudhry Abdul Majeed presented a cheque of Rs40 million to Chief of Army Staff General Raheel on behalf of people of the people of AJK for the internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Majeed reaffirmed full support of the people of AJK for the IDPs and armed forces.

Chairman Fauji Foundation Lieutenant General (retd) Muhammad Mustafa Khan also presented a cheque of Rs150 million to the COAS at the General Headquarters today.

July 9, 3:15pm

According to sources, 11 militants have been killed in air strikes in Miramshah today, Express News reported. Three militant hideouts have also been destroyed.

House to house search operation continues in the area, sources say.

July 9, 1:56pm

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif briefed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif about the success of the ongoing military operation against militants in North Waziristan, Express News reported.

The two top leaders met in Islamabad to discuss matters of national importance.

Read full story here.

July 9, 12:54pm

More than 800,000 people have fled the major military offensive in North Waziristan, officials said.

“Some 833,274 people or 66,726 migrating families from North Waziristan were registered in cities of Bannu and Peshawar until Tuesday evening,” Arshad Khan, FDMA director general, told AFP.

Khan said 361,459 of the displaced were children and 248,633 women.

Read the full story here.

July 8, 8:20pm

In Bannu, a field hospital has been set up at DHQ in collaboration with PIMS to provide health facilities to IDPs, Radio Pakistan reported.

July 8, 8:15pm

The USAID, through the WFP, has provided 1,580 metric tonnes of food supplies via six food distribution hubs in Bannu, Lakki Marwat and Tank.

July 8, 5:42pm

The government has so far registered around 751,986 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who have moved out of North Waziristan Agency.

The final figures will be available after verification from the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), to cut any duplication and avoid depriving deserving IDPs of their plight.

Read here for the full story.

IDPs from North Waziristan at a registration camp. PHOTO: PPI

July 8, 5:15pm

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has said that 400 terrorists have so far been killed in the operation.

In an interview with Radio Pakistan, the minister further said that 20 soldiers were killed in the line of duty.

Read the full story here.

July 8, 2:10pm

Pakistan Air Force jet planes bombed militant hideouts in North Waziristan’s Degan area, killing 13 suspected militants, Express Newsreported quoting ISPR.

“Seven terrorist hideouts were destroyed and 13 terrorists were killed, including foreigners, by jet aircraft strikes in Degan in North Waziristan Agency today,” a military statement told AFP.

So far 399 militants and 20 soldiers have been killed in the offensive, according to the military.

July 8, 11:55am

UN Refugee Agency said Pakistani families that migrated to Afghanistan’s Khost and Paktika provinces following the military operation in North Waziristan are urgently in need of food, APP reported.

July 7, 5:30pm

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif visited troops on the front lines in North Waziristan today, and lauded them for their courage, dedication and high state of morale, according to an ISPR press release.

Expressing his satisfaction with the ongoing operation so far, he commended the entire chain of command for their determined efforts in planning, preparation, mobilisation and execution of the operation.

The army chief reiterated emphasis on the need to eliminate all foreign and local terrorists.

Paying tribute to the internally displaced persons (IDPs) for their sacrifices to restore writ of the state, COAS acknowledged the national spirit and support forthcoming for them from across the country.

Read the full story here.

July 7, 1:23pm

The registration of internally displaced persons (IDPs), who migrated from North Waziristan due to the military operation against terrorists, started in Peshawar on Monday.

Fata Disaster Management Authority (FDMA) spokesperson told APP that a registration centre has been set up at Government College of Commerce and Management Sciences No 2, where registration of IDPs will continue till 3pm everyday.

Read the full story here.

Express News screengrabs showing IDPs waiting to get registered in Peshawar.

July 6, 8:50pm

The United States has extended an assistance of $31 million, while the government of United Arab Emirates (UAE) has released $20.5 million for the internally displaced persons (IDPs) of North Wazirstan on humanitarian grounds.

According to a detailed report submitted to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, so far 572,529 IDPs, belonging to 44,633 families, have been registered since the beginning of the Zarb-e-Azb operation in mid June, 2014.

Referring to IDPs, DG ISPR on twitter requested people to ‘bring back their smiles’:

July 6, 8:15pm

Peshawar Corps Commander Lieutenant General Khalid Rabbani visited Miramshah Bazar today and met with the troops participating in the ongoing operation Zarb-e-Azb.

According to an ISPR release, the corps commander was given a detailed briefing regarding progress of the operation.

July 5, 2:25pm

A three-day anti-polio drive in Bannu has started, Express News reported.

Around 500,000 children including IDPs will be administered polio drops.

July 5, 1:07pm

Jet planes bombed hideouts of suspected militants in Miramshah, Express News reported, quoting ISPR.

Several suspected foreign militants – mostly Uzbeks – reportedly died in the air strikes that took place early on Saturday morning, according to an ISPR press release.

Five hideouts, as well as a large amount of weapons, were destroyed in the latest bombing, the statement added.

A Pakistan Army soldier was killed in an IED explosion during a search operation this morning, the press release further stated.

July 4, 11:24pm

A Pakistan Army soldier was killed in Miramshah on Friday during a search operation.

Niak Fiaz Mohammad, of Mansehra, was killed when an IED exploded during the search operation.

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July 4, 8:24pm

The Economic Coordination Committee of the government has approved release of 60,000 metric tonnes of wheat for distribution among IDPs. A committee has been formed under the chairmanship of Minister for SAFRON Lt Gen Abdul Qadir Baloch to work out a distribution mechanism.

Read more about the ECC decision here.

July 4, 7:20pm

The government has decided to launch a three-day anti-polio drive in Bannu from Saturday, Radio Pakistan reported.

The drive is aimed at administrating polio drops to the children of IDPs. Besides IDPs, 150,000 local children will also be administered polio drops.

July 4, 4:08pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has directed relevant authorities to speed up relief efforts. “For us helping our people displaced because of Zarb-e-Azb is number one issue and we will do our level best to help them.”

Minister for States and Frontier Regions Abdul Qadir Baloch told the prime minister that so far 566,000 IDPs have been registered and that cash distribution will start from July 8, 2014, Radio Pakistan reported.

However, the PDMA has said that 576,929 IDPs have been registered at camps in Bannu. In the meanwhile, the FDMA says it has distributed Rs329.568 million among 27,668 registered IDPs so far.

July 4, 12:59pm

Around 70% of the ration distributed amongst the internally displaced persons (IDPs) was provided by the Pakistan Army, remarked Brigadier Aftab while addressing a media briefing in Bannu on Friday.

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The commander of 475 Engineer Brigade said that 40,000 relief packages were given to IDPs from army’s own ration. He added that each package weighed 110 kilogrammes (kg).

Read the full story is here.

July 3, 10:45pm

With the military operation in North Waziristan forcing people to flee their homes, as many as 75,000 Pakistanis have sought shelter in once refuge seeking Afghanistan, the UNHCR said on Wednesday.

July 3, 9:45pm

ISPR spokesperson Major General Asim Bajwa tweeted that an IED factory was discovered during a search operation in Miramshah.

So far in the operation, four IED factories have been discovered and another has been destroyed during air strikes.…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

July 3, 8:15pm

Bodies of seven suspected militants were recovered in Darpa Khel area of Mirali.

According to a security official, security forces advanced from Mirali and Miramshah Bazaar towards the outskirts of the agency after destroying three militant hideouts in Mirali. He added that one of the destroyed hideouts belonged to foreign militants.

Read the full story here.

July 3, 6:25pm
The military provided details of the meeting with Afghan defence and intelligence officials in a press release.

The Pakistan Army raised the issue of “terrorist sanctuaries” in eastern Kunar and Nuristan provinces in Afghanistan and attacks on Pakistani border villages and posts from those sanctuaries with top Afghan defence and intelligence officials on Thursday, the military said.

July 3, 4:41pm

Senior Pakistani and Afghan defence and intelligence officials on Thursday opened key talks on security issues, focusing on border management and cooperation in the current major military operation in North Waziristan, officials of the two countries said.

The meeting is seen as crucial at a time when Islamabad is anxious to seek Afghan cooperation to boost security on the border to stop fleeing militants from crossing the border.

For the full story, read here.

July 3, 10:50am

The Pakistan Army dispatched relief goods to IDP camps from Multan, Express News reported.

The local administration in Multan sent five trucks loaded with relief goods to the IDP camps as well, Express News reported quoting ISPR.

July 2, 11:15pm

Pakistan Navy has dispatched its first consignment of goods for IDPs. 41 tonnes of dry ration from Karachi and Islamabad for IDPs was loaded onto trucks and dispatched.

The Navy continues to collect ration packages comprising flour, rice, sugar, lentils, cooking oil, dry milk and tea at special camps established in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.

July 2, 10:30pm

ISPR spokesperson Major General Asim Bajwa tweeted that three IED factories, a suicide bomber training centre and a media facility was discovered during the operation.

Six IEDs attached to four laptops, terrorism related literature and cache of rockets were also recovered.

The spokesperson said terrorists have laid extensive IEDs in Miranshah and troops are busy in sweeping the streets for the booby traps.

Maj-Gen Bajwa added that 110kg packs of ration were distributed to each of 37,757 registered IDP families.

July 2, 6:10pm

In a veiled reference to former DG ISPR Athar Abbas’ statement two days go, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar said that the Pakistan Army is fighting a war for the future of Pakistan, and retired army officials should not make the military operation a point of dispute through their statements, Express News reported.

He said that army officials should be careful when making statements during a time that is crucial for the country.

July 2, 1:53pm

Speaking to media outside the National Assembly in Islamabad, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said, “we will search the corners of the country to eliminate terrorists from Pakistan.”

He stated that a successful operation against terrorists has been going on in Karachi for quite some time, adding that measures have been taken to ensure that Karachi does not suffer the blowback of the operation in North Waziristan.

July 2, 11:08pm

Military helicopters shelled militant hideouts in the Khar Warsak area, 12 kilometres north of Miramshah, killing 10 insurgents, AFP reported officials as saying. Read the full story here.

July 1, 6:50pm

A landmine factory was discovered during the ground operation in Miramshah, Express News reported quoting ISPR.

According to ISPR, 225 cylinders of explosive materials and 150 unfinished landmines were seized. 700 pipes filled with explosive materials were also retrieved.

July 1, 3:54pm

The army reiterated on Tuesday its longstanding demand of the Afghan government to dismantle sanctuaries of the Pakistani Taliban leadership on its side of the border for the success of the ongoing military offensive in North Waziristan.

“We expect Afghan security forces will either eliminate or handover Pakistani Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah, who controls his fighters from across the border,” military spokesperson Major General Asim Bajwa said at a briefing for Islamabad-based foreign media.

Minister for States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) Abdul Qadir Baloch said that anybody involved in terrorist activities will be eliminated irrespective of the group they belong to.

“They cannot escape,” the DG ISPR said. “It’s very clear that those left inside are only terrorists.”

For the full story, read here.

July 1, 12:27pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif met Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt to discuss the ongoing operation in North Waziristan, Express Newsreported.

Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt called on Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif at the PM House in Islamabad. PHOTO: PID

Nawaz said that the operation will continue until all foreign and local terrorists are eliminated. Responding to claims that the army operation was started in haste, Nawaz said that this was not the case and it was initiated after careful thought and consideration. Read the full storyhere.

June 30, 9:13pm

On behalf of the Sindh Government, Chief Minister Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah presented a cheque of Rs50 million to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in support of the IDPs in North Waziristan, according to PID.

Chief Minister Sindh Qaim Ali Shah presenting a cheque of Rs50 million for North Waziristan IDPs to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif at the PM House. PHOTO: PID

June 30, 6:18pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said that following the month of Ramazan’s true spirit of sacrifice, the nation should express solidarity with the internally displaced persons (IDPs) at this difficult time.

Read here for the full story.

Internally displaced civilians, fleeing a military operation by Taliban militants in the North Waziristan tribal agency, buy dates at a market ahead of the Islamic holy month of Ramazan in Bannu. PHOTO: AFP

June 30, 6:00pm

Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah presented a cheque of Rs50 million to Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif on behalf of the Sindh government for the IDPs, Express News reported.

Shah expressed his solidarity with the IDPs and the armed forces during the ongoing operation.

June 30, 3:51pm

For half a million people displaced by the military offensive, the prospect of fasting during Ramazan amid severe food shortages has sharpened anger.

Far from the comforts of home in their cool mountainous district, many displaced people are facing up to life in tent villages a few kilometres east of the region’s border.

Temperatures approach 50°C and riots frequently break out over the lack of food supplies.

Read the full story here.

June 30, 3:45pm

Troops moved on Miramshah, the main town in North Waziristan, around 9:30am, officials said, after two weeks of air strikes and artillery bombardment of insurgent targets, AFP reported.

Security officials in Miramshah told AFP troops moved on the town after six hours of artillery shelling, which began at 3:30am.

“They are using tanks and armoured vehicles for ground movement,” a security official said on condition of anonymity.

“The forces have also taken over the civil hospital in Miramshah and have destroyed four hideouts in the artillery firing,” he added.

Other security officials in Peshawar confirmed the advance.

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June 30, 12:51pm

According to an ISPR press release, 15 militants were killed as the ground offensive started today.

Three soldiers were also injured in exchange of fire, the press release stated.

Meanwhile, integrated fire of artillery, tanks and other heavy weapons is being carried out on terrorist’s concentrations in Mirali and other areas, according to ISPR.

“Since start of operation Zarbe Azb on June 15, 376 terrorists have been killed while 19 have surrendered to the security forces. 61 terrorists hideouts have been destroyed in the operation during last 15 days. 17 soldiers have embraced martyrdom in the ongoing military operation,” the statement added.

June 30, 12:21pm

DG ISPR said on twitter that the ground operation in Miramshah has started with army troops conducting house to house search.

June 29, 8:15pm

At least 16 terrorists were killed in the fresh air strikes in North Waziristan on Sunday, Express News reported quoting Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).

At least 16 terrorists were killed and seven militant hideouts were destroyed in the latest air strikes in Mir Ali area of North Waziristan.

ISPR claimed that an ammunition depot was also destroyed in the attack.

June 28, 10:23pm

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif said on Saturday that the army will not hesitate from any sacrifice for the defence of the country and that it was prepared to fight against the entire spectrum of threats.

Read the full story here.

June 28, 8:56pm

After the recent attacks and in the wake of the military operation in the militant’s bastions in North Waziristan, security is being enhanced in the country’s airports.

Read here for the full story.

June 28, 7:45pm

Meanwhile, in a softer development the first child birth has been reported from an IDP camp, fittingly enough he has been named Azb Khan.

Read the full story here.

Muhammad Aziz, fleeing a military operation against Taliban militants in the North Waziristan tribal agency, take cares of his new born baby boy Azb Khan at a makeshift refugee camp in Bannu. PHOTO: AFP

June 28, 7:10pm

The United States has said that the ongoing military operation in North Waziristan to clear the tribal area of militants is entirely a Pakistani-executed action. Read the entire story here:

June 28, 4:18pm

After the surrender of 19 terrorists so far, more terrorists may lay down arms, Director General of Inter Services Public Relations (DG-ISPR) Asim Salim Bajwa said on social media.

He stated that an effective cordon around terrorist hideouts is in place around all places in North Waziristan Agency.

Bajwa also said ration collection points have been increased to 53 across the country and 131 tons of ration have been collected and dispatched to Bannu uptil now. Read more about the relief efforts here.

IDPs receive food in Bannu on June 28, 2014 after fleeing the military operation in North Waziristan. PHOTO: AFP

June 28, 3:49pm

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander of Miranshah, Commander Umer, was killed last night by security forces on the outskirts on Miranshah, Director General of Inter Services Public Relations (DG-ISPR) Asim Salim Bajwa said on social media.

He said that seven terrorists were killed early Saturday morning outside Miranshah. Bajwa also confirmed that 6 terrorist hideouts were destroyed last evening on the outskirts of Mirali killing 11 terrorists.

Bajwa confirmed that one prominent al Qaeda commander was also arrested. According to initial interrogation, the commander is an expert in explosives, improvised explosive devices (IED) and suicide belts.

Three terrorists were also arrested by security forces while they tried to cross Indus River near Mianwali. All crossings along the river have been sealed to keep terrorists from escaping.

June 28, 1:40pm

The finance ministry released Rs2 billion as part of state assistance for the internally displaced persons.

Read full story here.

June 28, 11:55am

Jets killed 17 militants in the latest raid on rebel hideouts, officials said on Saturday, AFP reports.

The planes bombarded hideouts in the Dargamandi and Chashma Gaon areas of North Waziristan late Friday, as aid agencies geared up relief efforts for refugees fleeing the military operation.

“Jet fighters bombarded militant hideouts, killing 17 rebels and destroying their six compounds,” a senior security official said.

A local intelligence official confirmed the militant casualties in the aerial attack.

According to AFP, nearly 370 militants and 12 security personnel have been killed in the offensive, although the number and identity of the victims are impossible to verify.

June 27, 12:20pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announced a Ramazan package worth Rs20,000 for each family of internally displaced persons (IDPs) on Friday.

The prime minister made the announcement while addressing the IDPs in Bannu. The Ramazan package is in addition to the earlier announced monthly allowance of Rs20,000 which includes Rs5,000 for non-food items and Rs3,000 for rent.

Read the full story here.

June 27, 10:50am

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif along with Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid and Abdul Qadir Baloch arrived in Bannu to meet the IDPs. Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif welcomed the premier as he disembarked his helicopter.

Security was beefed up in the area due to the high-profile visit.

PM Nawaz was briefed about the situation of the displaced people and steps taken to assist them. K-P Chief Minister Pervez Khattak and K-P Governor Sardar Mehtab Abbasi were also present during the briefing.

June 27, 10:00am

Pakistan Army is poised to launch the much anticipated ground offensive against militants in North Waziristan Agency (NWA) within the next 48 hours after the near-completion of the evacuation of civilians from the troubled areas, our correspondent Kamran Yousaf report.

The Express Tribune has learnt through senior military officials that following days of air strikes, ground combat will begin anytime now.

Read the full story here.

June 26, 6:19pm

In a press briefing to a select group of journalist, DG ISPR said the registration and evacuation process of IDPs has by and large been completed, our correspondent Kamran Yousaf reports.

At present, 466,00 IDPs have been registered, the DG ISPR said, adding that any civilians, who are still in the agency, can still be evacuated.

DG ISPR said the operation in N Waziristan is against all terrorist, including Haqqani network. He said there is a misconception that the army is facilitating certain militant groups, adding that there will be no discrimination in the operation and anyone who challenges the writ of the state will be taken to task.

“This is the beginning of the end of terrorism in Pakistan,” the DG ISPR added.

So far 327 terrorists have been killed and 45 hideouts have been destroyed in Operation Zarb-e-Azb. Ten soldiers have also been killed in the operation.

June 26, 5:40pm

A health worker administers polio vaccination drops to a child in Bannu. PHOTO: AFP

June 26, 5:14pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed confidence in the armed forces in eradicating militants from the country, adding that the nation stands by the armed forces.

Read here for the full story.

June 26, 4:10pm

Pakistan has asked Afghanistan to take necessary measures on its side of the border to stop terrorists fleeing North Waziristan from entering Afghan territory, according to the Foreign Office.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam in her weekly briefing said the operation has been launched in North Waziristan to eliminate terrorism and it was in Afghanistan’s own interest to cooperate with Pakistan.

Read the full story here.

June 26, 3:05pm

A Prime Minister Relief Fund has been established for IDPs, according to Radio Pakistan.

The federal cabinet, treasury members of the National Assembly and Senate have contributed their one-month salary to the relief fund.

June 26, 2:35pm

The military shelled a strategic town with tanks and artillery Thursday in the latest round of its offensive against militants in North Waziristan.

The heavy bombardment of Miramshah, the main town of North Waziristan tribal district, began at 6:00am, according to local intelligence and military sources.

Read the full story here.

June 26, 11:46am

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif invited Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairperson Imran Khan to visit camps of IDPs in Bannu on June 27, Express News Islamabad bureau chief Amir Ilyas Rana reported.

The bureau chief further reported that the PTI chief has rejected the offer, saying that he has a rally in Bahawalpur.

On June 17, Imran had denounced the deadly clashes between the police and supporters of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Dr Tahirul Qadri, and announced to hold a protest against the incident in Bahawalpur.

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Shareef will be accompanying Nawaz to the camps tomorrow.

June 26, 11:00am

Four terrorists and three khasadar officials were killed in an exchange of fire between security forces and militants in Jamrud, Khyber Agency,Express News reported.

Read the full story here.

June 25, 11:10pm

Over 100 Taliban fighters and 40 civilians have been killed in clashes with Afghan authorities in southern Afghanistan after more than 800 Taliban launched an offensive there.

Read more about the clashes with Taliban in Afghanistan here.

June 25, 7:24pm

The UAE government has announced $2.5 million for IDPs, while UNHCR has pledged to provide 16,000 tents and the same number of non-food items if needed by IDPs, said Tariq Hayat, focal person for IDPs in the ministry of States and Frontier Regions.

Additionally, the Senate of Pakistan has contributed Rs5 million to the IDPs.

Read here for the full story.

IDPs, fleeing a military operation in the North Waziristan tribal agency, wait in line outside a World Food Programme aid distribution centre in Bannu. PHOTO: AFP

June 25, 7:10pm

A curfew has been imposed in Mir Ali and the army has cordoned off the area, according to Express News.

June 25, 5:44pm

Air strikes in Mir Ali have killed 13 militants and destroyed five militant hideouts, Express News reported quoting ISPR.

12 militants have also surrendered to the army, according to ISPR.

June 25, 11:24am

DG ISPR has asked people to help IDPs. He tweeted:

June 24, 8:01pm

With 454,207 people having fled Zarb-e-Azb operation in North Waziristan, the minister of state for frontier regions (SAFRON) Abdul Qadir Baloch dispelled any notion of friction between the federal government and the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government on handling internally displaced persons (IDPs).

“We’ve got a good understanding with the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government,” said Baloch during a press conference on Tuesday.

The minister, tasked by the prime minister to oversee issues relating to IDPs, added that “the focal person is commissioner Bannu who comes under the K-P government, and I have no complaints from him and he has not issued any complaints either.”

Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif directed the provision of every possible relief to the IDPs, Radio Pakistan reported.

The premier was chairing a meeting to review the situation of IDPs in Islamabad on Tuesday, and said that the government stands by the IDPs at this hour of trial.

Federal Ministers Abdul Qadir Baloch, Pervaiz Rashid, governor Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Director general military operations and director general Inter-Services Public Relations were in attendance during the meeting.

Baloch and DG military operations briefed the premier on latest updates from the front.

June 24, 5:23pm

Airstrikes in Mir Ali killed 27 militants, and 11 terrorist hideouts were destroyed, Express News reported quoting ISPR.

Furthermore, an arms depot of terrorists was also destroyed.

Earlier in the morning, 20 terrorists were killed in Khyber Agency.

An ISPR statement added that so far 454,207 IDPs (36,514 families) from North Waziristan Agency have been registered at the Saidgai registration point.

Six ration distribution points have also been established for the IDPs of North Waziristan Agency – three at Bannu, two at DI Khan and one in Tank, the statement added.
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June 24, 4:35pm

A suicide bomber in a car killed at least two troops in Spinwam village of North Waziristan agency.

“At least two soldiers and a civilian have embraced martyrdom,” a security official told AFP.

A military statement said that troops stopped the car suicide bomber 100 metres away from a checkpost near a hospital and the action averted major casualties.

The Ansarul Mujahideen militant group claimed responsibility, with spokesman Abu Baseer saying it was the start of a counter-offensive against the armed forces by the Taliban.

For more details, read the full story here.

June 24, 3:30pm

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has announced the establishment of a Rs500 million fund for the IDPs.

While speaking to the media, Shahbaz said that the Punjab assembly and Punjab government will donate one-month salary to this fund. He appealed to the nation to donate generously as well.

The chief minister further added that 50 trucks have been sent today carrying food essentials and tents for the IDPs.

June 24, 2:01pm

Speaking to media in Rawalpindi, Information Minister Pervaiz Rasheed said that internally displaced persons (IDPs) have made a sacrifice for the sake of Pakistanis.

He added that “they have had to leave their homes, schools and businesses behind so that terrorists can be eliminated.”

“They are our guests,” he said, adding that 180 million Pakistanis can easily host a few hundred thousand IDPs.

Requesting citizens to donate water coolers to them, he said that it is our obligation to facilitate them.

“With one hand we must get the terrorists under control and with the other we need to help these people who are making sacrifices for our sake,” Rasheed said.

June 24, 1:46pm

Police and troops fire warning shots Tuesday to break up a protest over food shortages by people who have fled North Waziristan because of the military operation, AFP reports.

Anger at problems with food distribution spill over on Tuesday, with people blocking the main road from Bannu to Peshawar.

Read the full story here.

An internally displaced civilian from the North Waziristan tribal agency shouts slogans during a protest outside a World Food Programme food distribution point in Bannu on June 24, 2014. PHOTO: AFP

June 24, 10:58am

Last night the local administration imposed a curfew in North Waziristan, Express News reports.

Evacuation of IDPs has also stopped, according to security sources.

Around 450,000 IDPs have arrived in Bannu and their registration is also complete at Saidgi check post.

June 23, 7:05pm

Jet aircrafts destroyed eight terrorist hideouts around Mirali early Monday morning killing 15 terrorists.

Ten terrorists were killed separately while fleeing cordoned off areas in Spinwam and Mirali, while two soldiers also lost their lives.

Meanwhile, 414,429 IDPs have been registered so far at the Saidgai check post.

Four relief goods delivery points have been established at Bannu. Food items, medical care and cash amount as announced by the government will be distributed by the concerned civil agency among IDPs here. A field medical hospital is also being established at Bannu.

June 23, 1:58pm

The World Food Programme on Monday began distributing aid for hundreds of thousands of people who have fled a military operation in Pakistan, as refugees clashed with authorities over delays. Read the story here.…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

June 23, 11:06am

Over 100 ulema from various schools of thought declared Zarb-e-Azb, the ongoing military operation against militants in North Waziristan, as a form of jihad. You can read the complete story here.

June 23, 2:30am

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has requested the government for an immediate release of 60,000 ton of wheat to meet emerging food demands of the IDPs.

So far, the WFP Pakistan is the only UN agency that the government has requested assistance from.

For more details, you can read the full story here.

June 22, 4:14pm

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Khan demands the federal government to immediately release Rs6 billion to the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government to help assist IDPs. He also urged the government to put the operation on hold to assist civilians fleeing North Waziristan.

June 22, 4:14pm

The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from North Waziristan has risen to 303,057, Radio Pakistan reported. The government is arranging 2,000 vehicles for the withdrawal of IDPs from North Waziristan.

Further, 96,000 children will be vaccinated against various diseases while 64,000 will be vaccinated against polio for the first time in the IDP camps.

Two thousand tents have been established in Bannu to accommodate those migrating from North Waziristan. However, several families are choosing to live with their relatives in Bannu, Tank, Lakki and DI Khan.

Each displaced family is being paid Rs12,000 at the time of registration. Further, on the directives of the prime minister, each family is to be provided food assistance worth Rs7,000, being arranged by Minister for SAFRON, K-P governor and FDMA.

June 22, 3:55pm

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has allocated Rs350m for assistance of IDPs, Sirajul Haq, a senior minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has said, Radio Pakistan reported.

Meanwhile, PTI chief Imran Khan and K-P Chief Minister Parvez Khattak have arrived in Bannu to oversee arrangements being made for assisting the IDPs. Commissioner Bannu briefed the two over the progress being made by the provincial government to facilitate the displaced population of North Waziristan.

June 22, 2:40pm

The deadline for evacuating North Waziristan has been extended another day again, according to Express News. This is the second time the deadline has been extended. The initial deadline for leaving the agency was Saturday.

June 22, 2:40pm

Donation camps have been established by the Pakistan Army in Karachi and Lahore to assist IDPs fleeing North Waziristan, according to ISPR.

You can read the entire list of donation collection points here.

June 22, 12:02pm

According to the data provided by FATA Disaster Management Authority (FDMA), over 300,000 people have migrated from North Waziristan Agency since the operation started, Express News reports.

June 21, 10:05pm

Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar has asked the police and security agencies to pool their resources to fully secure the twin cities, Rawalpindi and Islamabad, and its residents in wake of the recently launched operation in the tribal areas.

For more details, you can read the full story here.

June 21, 10:00pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday advised the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to suspend roaming services currently extended to Afghan Subscriber Information Modules.

For more details, you can read the full story here.

June 21, 6:12pm

Residents of North Waziristan have been given one more day to evacuate the area.

Earlier, the last day for leaving the agency was today (Saturday); however, the deadline has been extended to Sunday and the curfew has been relaxed, according to Express News.

June 21, 5:59pm

All ranks of the army will donate one day’s pay to the IDPs, according to ISPR reports Express News.

DG ISPR Asim Bajwa has said that the army will also provide 30-days of ration for the IDPs.

So far, the government has registered 227,049 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected due to the ongoing operation in North Waziristan with the help of the National Database Registration Authority (NADRA).

According to the latest official data made available on Saturday, the government registered 15,757 families including 56,214 males, 70,465 females and 100,370 children.

Four rehabilitation centers have been established at Dera Ismail Khan, Laki Marwat, Bannu and Tank where IDPs would be processed through the verification of NADRA, according to officials.

A control room had also been established in the Ministry of States and Frontier Region to provide rehabilitation services for the IDPs that was working round-the-clock and providing every type of information.

A cash amount of Rs12,000 was being paid to every IDP family for food assistance, and NADRA was verifying them one by one at the established centers.

A young Internally Displaced Pakistani girl from the North Waziristan tribal region gives drink oral rehydration solution (ORS) to a baby at the Women and Children Hospital in Bannu. PHOTO: AFP

June 21, 12:07pm

Thirty militants were killed in targeted strikes by jet aircrafts in Khyber and North Waziristan Agencies early morning today, according to an ISPR press release.

According to details, at 2am, jet aircraft destroyed two hideouts close to the Pak-Afghan border in Khyber Agency, killing 10 terrorists.

At 5am, three hideouts were destroyed in Hassu Khel in North Waziristan Agency, killing 15 militants. All strikes were made in areas where there is no civil population, the statement added.

June 21, 9:57am

DG ISPR Major General Asim Saleem Bajwa said on twitter that tribal leaders have announced their support for the military operation:

June 21, 8:43am

Jet planes of the Pakistan Air Force bombed militant hideouts in the Bara tehsil of Khyber Agency, leaving three militants dead and six others injured, Express News reported.

One militant hideout was completely destroyed in the bombing, which was carried out after credible information about the presence of militants.

June 20, 7:47pm

“Three terrorist hideouts in the Qutab Khel area, on the outskirts of Miramshah were destroyed early morning today by gunship helicopters. It was an integrated action by cobra gunships, artillery and snipers. Twelve terrorists including foreigners were killed in the strikes. A huge cache of arms and ammunition was also destroyed,” an ISPR press release said.

The statement went on to add that while the operation progresses as per plan, terrorists inside cordoned area are making desperate attempts to flee from area. “Six attempts were foiled last night. Three locals who did not have any identity proof were apprehended while trying to flee from the cordon.”

Further, the statement added, another 24 suspects, who were trying to flee in the garb of IDPs, have been apprehended at various ‘strangulation’ check posts in Mirali and Miramshah.

An organised evacuation of IDPs continues from North Waziristan Agency towards FR Bannu, said the statement. “Till now 200,000 persons have been evacuated from the area. So far 11 families (92 individuals) have been enlisted in the IDP camp, Bakkakhel, Bannu.”

Further, 400 Afghan families left North Waziristan Agency for Afghanistan through Ghulam Khan Border village yesterday. They were provided all required administrative assistance.

June 20, 6:47pm

During the prime minister’s visit to the Corps Headquarters in Peshawar, he was informed that 232 terrorists had been killed in the ongoing operation, and 20 terrorist hideouts have also been destroyed.

Eight soldiers were killed and seven injured during the operation.

June 20, 4:16pm

Gunship helicopters pounded militant targets in North Waziristan Friday, killing up to 20 rebels, as the number of civilians fleeing an expected ground offensive passed 150,000.

June 20, 3:10pm

The United Nations (UN) health agencies are supporting Pakistan’s humanitarian efforts to help thousands of people who have left North Waziristan where armed forces have launched an anti-terrorist operation, a UN spokesperson said on Thursday.

Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, while speaking at a regular media briefing at the UN Headquarters in New York, said that access remained the “greatest challenge” in the areas of displacement and urged the authorities to improve the humanitarian space.

He said an estimated 34,000 people fled North Waziristan on Wednesday, following a relaxation in the curfew, bringing the total number of people displaced from the area since May to some 100,000. Further movement was anticipated, he added.

June 20, 2:46pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif visited the Corps Headquarters in Peshawar, Express Newsreported.

The premier gave a briefing of the operation and the assistance being provided to the IDPs.

Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asim Saleem Bajwa tweeted:

June 20, 9:17 am

Gunship helicopters shell suspected militant hideouts in Qutub Khel suburb of Miramshah, Express News reports.

Artillery shells are also being fired from security camps.

Today is the last day for tribesmen to vacate the affected areas.

June 19, 11:59 pm

Pakistan has sought extradition of TTP chief Mullah Fazlullah from Afghanistan.

June 19, 10:33pm

Chairing a high level meeting in Islamabad, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has sought national unity and stressed that “there is a need to extend full support to our jawans (soldiers) in the combat area.”

Read more about the meeting here.

June 19, 10:10 pm

Afghan president Hamid Karzai called prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday assuring the latter of former’s support.

Read details of the call here.

June 19, 5:45pm

The Foreign Office has clarified that drone strikes have no links with the ongoing military operation in North Waziristan, adding that it was completely misleading and wrong to attach the two.

June 19, 5:14pm

Civilians are streaming out of a tribal area in a two-pronged exodus ahead of an expected ground assault against militants, officials said Thursday, with many crossing the border into Afghanistan.

Tanks and troops have been mobilised and are expected to begin a new, more intense phase of the operation after a three-day window to allow civilians to leave the area, due to end on June 20.

Officials say that at least 113,000 people have fled North Waziristan since initial air strikes began in May.

“Afghan authorities have yet to prepare a final report but up to now they have provided assistance to 818 Pakistani families,” an official responsible for monitoring the displacement on the Afghan border told AFP.

June 19, 3:50pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said national unity is inevitable for the success of the military operation in North Waziristan, while talking to Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif, according to Radio Pakistan.

The prime minister said Pakistan is fighting a decisive war against terrorists, adding that the jawans engaged in the war would be extended full support.

He also said that IDPs in K-P would be fully assisted.

June 19, 3:22pm

Fifteen terrorists were killed in Zartatangi mountain heights, east of Miramshah by army gunship cobra helicopters last night when spotted. It was one of the main communication centres of terrorists, said an ISPR statement.

“In a separate sniper action, eight Uzbeks were killed around Miramshah while planting IEDs on the road Miramshah-Mirali,” the statement added.

Further, the ISPR statement said, areas housing terrorists in North Wazirstan Agency are continuously being cordoned off, while terrorists’ attempts to flee the area have been foiled.

“Today, evacuation of civil population from Miramshah and Ghulam Khan started. Check points have been established at various places where IDPs are being provided all administrative support including food items and medicine by security forces,” said the statement.

Furthermore, it added that the number of registration points at Saidgai Post have been increased to 20 — 10 each for men and women, for speedy and organised evacuation. IDP camps at Bannu have also been established, the ISPR said in its statement.

June 19, 1:32pm

According to an ISPR press release, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif visited Air Headquarters Islamabad and called on Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt.

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif (R) and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt (L). PHOTO: ISPR

Progress of the ongoing military operation was reviewed and matters of mutual interest were discussed.

June 19, 12:24pm

A large number of IDPs have started to arrive at camps in Bannu, Express News reports.

Hundreds of camps have been set up for IDPs in order to provide them with relief items.

June 18, 10:24pm

Sindh Cabinet has decided to seek help from UNHCR to register IDPs arriving in the province. Fears reprisal attacks.

For more details on the decisions taken in the Sindh Cabinet, refer to the full story here.

June 18, 7:18pm

All necessary arrangements to provide maximum relief to the IDPs from N Waziristan have been completed by the federal government, Radio Pakistan reported.

Abdul Qadir Baloch, minister for states and frontier regions, said that 100,000 people have been shifted to settled districts from North Waziristan Agency so far.

Tent villages have been established for the IDPs. Basic facilities such as clean drinking water, electricity and health service have also been arranged.

The same facilities would also be given to people who have been shifted to safer places within North Waziristan Agency.

Civilians, fleeing from a military operation in North Waziristan tribal agency, arrive in Bannu district. PHOTO: AFP

June 18, 6:30pm

The AJK Legislative Assembly on Wednesday passed a unanimous resolution in support of Operation Zarb-e-Azb in its session in Muzaffarabad.

Similarly, the Punjab Assembly also passed a resolution in support of the operation. The resolution, tabled by the Provincial Law Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan, praised the prime minister for making the right decision in conducting the operation.

June 18, 4:24pm

Military eases curfew in main towns of North Waziristan to allow civilians to flee offensive against the Taliban.

June 18, 2:52pm

Residents of Mir Ali burnt down four houses of Uzbeks living in the area after giving them a warning to leave, Express News reported.

June 18, 1:08pm

According to security forces, internally displaced persons are being shifted to camps after strict verification, Express News reports.

June 18, 1:03pm

Afghan ambassador to Pakistan Janan Mosazai called on Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif at the General Headquarters, according to an ISPR press release.

Operation Zarb-e-Azb and matters of mutual interest including measures to improve security along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border were discussed during the meeting.

PHOTO: ISPR

June 18, 9:32am

The death toll from Wednesday’s drone strike in Miramshah rose to six, Express News reports.

June 18, 4:32am

As the operation in North Waziristan continues, a fresh drone attack in Miramshah killed at least four people on Wednesday morning, Express News reports.

June 17, 9:50pm

Instead of providing relief goods and food, the government has decided to initially provide each IDP family cash grant of Rs 12,000 to take care of their needs. Later, they would be provided with Rs 7,000 on a monthly basis.

Read this story for more details on the government’s plan for taking care of IDPs.

June 17, 8:39pm

The federal government announced on Tuesday that Rs500 million will be sanctioned for providing relief to the internally displacement persons (IDPs) fleeing the military operation in North Waziristan.

Read here for more details on the government’s plan for taking care of IDPs.

June 17, 8:14pm

Minister for States and Frontier Region Abdul Qadir Baloch, who has been tasked by the prime minister to oversee issues relating to the internally displaced people (IDPs), said all IDPs will be registered using biometric systems.

June 17, 8:02pm

The top US military commander in Afghanistan says the US has increased its surveillance over the Afghan-Pakistan border since Pakistan began pounding a militant stronghold with airstrikes, BBC Urdu reported on Tuesday.

Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford told The Associated Press in an interview that the US was not coordinating military operations with Pakistan along the border, but officials have increased the amount of intelligence-sharing with the Afghans. He said the Afghan troops and US forces in that region were ready for any effects of the strikes, including extremists seeking refuge in Afghanistan.

June 17, 5:10pm

DG ISPR Asim Bajwa has said the operation has not begun in the populated areas of N Waziristan to ensure terrorists don’t escape and civilians are safely evacuated.

June 17, 5:08pm

Expressing concern over the military operation in FATA, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman claimed that Parliament is helpless before the military establishment.

“The army has taken a decision and parliament has given mere approval for it,” said Fazl during the National Assembly session.

June 17, 3:54pm

Six terrorist hideouts including a training camp and an IED making factory around Hasokhel, North Waziristan Agency were destroyed by jet aircraft early morning today. Twenty-five foreign and local terrorists were killed in the strikes, according to a press release issued by ISPR.

The statement went on to add that the operation in North Waziristan Agency is progressing as per plan. “Last night three terrorists were killed while fleeing from the cordoned off area in Miramshah. One soldier got injured in exchange of fire.

Further, the statement said, no operation in built up area has been started so far to ensure that no terrorist can escape the cordon and that civilians are safely evacuated after their detailed verification.

“Necessary logistics and administrative arrangements for IDPs have been completed by the political administration and Disaster Management Agency. Security of IDP camp being ensured by Army troops,” the statement said.

June 17, 3:11pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif directed the Finance Minister Ishaq Dar to ensure provision of ample funds for the rehabilitation of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) of the North Waziristan operation.

Meanwhile, PM Nawaz has also directed Minister for States and Frontier Regions Abdul Qadir Baloch to visit affected areas of North Waziristan operation. The minister will remain present in the area to look after the displaced people.
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June 17, 12:58pm

Nawaz asks his Kabul counterpart Hamid Karzai to seal the porous Pak-Afghan border where the Pakistani army has deployed troops and tanks, AFP reports.

June 17, 11:58am

Fresh air strikes early Tuesday target three militant strongholds in Mirali town in North Waziristan and kill 13 alleged militants, three security sources said, AFP reports.

June 17, 11:55am

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif cancels his visit to Sri Lanka due to the ongoing operation in North Waziristan Agency, The Express Tribune’s defence correspondent Kamran Yousaf reports.

General Raheel was scheduled to travel to Colombo on Tuesday for a four-day trip. However the military’s media wing says the visit has been called off because of operation Zarb-e-Azb.

June 16, 11:30pm

“Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Monday called President Hamid Karazai and discussed issues on regional security,” said a statement issued by Prime Minister Office.

Although the statement did not mention of operation Zarb-e-Azb in North Wazirstan, sources said that the PM had sought cooperation from the Afghan President.

June 16, 9:56pm

June 16, 9:43pm

A resolution in favour of the military operation was passed in the National Assembly; Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) abstained from approving it, according to our National Assembly correspondent Azam Khan.

The resolution, moved by Zahid Hamid, was signed and supported by PML (N), PPP, PTI, MQM and ANP.

June 16, 8:56pm

According to an ISPR press release, COAS General Raheel Sharif emphasized that all terrorists along with their sanctuaries must be eliminated without any discrimination.

It further stated that the operation is not targeted against the tribes of North Waziristan, but against terrorists holed up in the Agency who have picked up arms against Pakistan.

He directed all those concerned to undertake special measures towards diligent management of IDPs in conjunction with the relevant civilian agencies.

COAS reiterated that with the support of the nation, particularly of the tribal brethren, Operation Zarb-e-Azb will be concluded successfully and comprehensively, the press release said.

June 16, 8:44pm

According to Express News, army chief says terrorists are the target in North Waziristan, not locals.

June 16, 8:32pm

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif visited the Corps Headquarters in Peshawar where he was briefed about the operation, according to Express News.

COAS General Raheel Sharif during his visit to Corps Headquarters Peshawar for briefing on operation Zarb-e-Azb on Monday. PHOTO: ISPR

June 16, 8:24pm

Seven terrorists were killed in exchange of fire when trying to flee from cordoned off area. Two soldiers were also killed during the exchange of fire, according to ISPR.

June 16, 8:15pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday constituted a national coordination committee to oversee the operation and related issues.

The coordination committee would hold meetings on regular basis and will keep the Prime Minister informed about the progress of the operation, said a statement issued by PM office.

The committee will be comprised of Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Senator Parvez Rashid, Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for States and Frontier Regions Lt General (retd) Abdul Quadir Baloch and Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Secretary interior, secretary finance, chief sectary K-P, Chairman NDMA, Chief of General Staff, DG MO, DG ISI, DG ISPR would also be the part of the committee.

June 16, 8:05pm

After his speech in the National Assembly, Imran Khan says the government should have taken all stakeholders into confidence over the decision of the army operation, Express News reports.

He added that the government should have provided them with details of the operation.

June 16, 6:48pm

Nawaz requests the house to be allowed to leave after completing his speech. He doesn’t stay to listen to the speeches of the opposition leader PPP’s Khursheed Shah or of PTI’s Imran Khan.

Read a comprehensive story on the prime minster’s speech here.

June 16, 6:46pm

At no cost will the country become a safe haven for terrorists, says Nawaz.

Pakistan is paying heavy price for terrorism, says the PM, adding that Pakistanis homes and mosques were targeted.

He said that terrorism has affected every aspect of Pakistan – tourism, sports and the economy.

June 16, 6:43pm

Abdul Qadir Baloch will be assigned to manage the facilitation of the Internally Displaced Persons.

PM Nawaz expects the tribes to play an important part in this operation.

June 16, 6:42pm

PM requests religious leaders to play their role in eradicating extremism from the country.

June 16, 6:41pm

The PM added that blood was spilled in Karachi and Islamabad despite our peace efforts.

Media and oppostion parties should stand united with the government and the armed forces.

June 16, 6:38pm

All the decisions were taken in consultation with all stakeholders, including the armed forces, he says.

June 16, 6:36pm

The PM says the government had decided to give peace a chance, pointing out that they had started the negotiation process which had been endorsed by Parliament.

He says that the people of Pakistan are witnesses to these “sincere” efforts, which, he says, were not reciprocated from the other side (TTP).

He says that while the government was trying to negotiate, the TTP targeted the country’s children.

June 16, 6:34pm

Nawaz says the operation will not end until all terrorists are eliminated.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif delivering his keynote address at National Assembly on Monday, June 16, 2014. PHOTO: PID

June 16, 6:33pm

PM Nawaz has arrived at the National Assembly.

June 16, 6:24pm

US embassy has announced its support for the army operation in North Waziristan, Express News reported.

The embassy further stated that the US will support all steps being taken to stabilise Pakistan.

June 16, 6:09pm

Army troops on the move from Malir Cantt; to be deployed in Karachi, Express News reports.

Express News screengrab of army troops on the move.

June 16, 5:59pm

The house has gone into break, but it looks like the floor is getting ready for the briefing.

Adviser to the PM on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz is present at the National Assembly as well as Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif.

Imran Khan’s speech writer has also been spotted in the gathering.

June 16, 5:35pm

The session of the National Assembly, which was to see the prime minister brief parliament (and the nation) on the operation under way in North Waziristan, began at 4:22pm.

The session is being chaired by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.

So far, the session has only seen speeches on the budget – no sign of the prime minister yet.

June 16, 5:21pm

Army will deployed in all major cities of Pakistan, Express News reports.

June 16, 4:25pm

As the army launches arguably its toughest operation yet against militants in the country’s restive tribal region, The Express Tribune takes a look back at previous major operations launched to root out militancy in the past 10 years.

June 16, 3:42pm

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf supports the operation in North Waziristan, Express News reports.

According to ISPR, six soldiers were killed while three others were injured in an IED explosion near Ghulam Khan town near Afghan border in North Waziristan tribal region.

(L-R) Sepoy Bashir Ahmed Shaheed, Sepoy Afsar Ali Shaheed and Sepoy Nazar Gul Shaheed

(L-R) Lance Naik Zahid Hussain Turi Shaheed, Naik Aman Ullah Shaheed and Naib Subedar Alamgir Shaheed

June 16, 3:20pm

Army will be deployed in sensitive areas of Karachi, according to Express News.

June 16, 3:12pm

PM Nawaz Sharif is expected to address the National Assembly at 4pm on the ongoing operation in North Waziristan.

A Pakistan army vehicle heads towards North Waziristan. PHOTO: AFP

June 16, 2:50pm

Giving details about yesterday’s offensive, the ISPR press release states that 140 militants – mostly Uzbek – were killed in precise air strikes in Degan-Boya area of North Waziristan.

“Many East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) terrorists and their affiliates have also been killed in the strikes. It was a massive blow to the terrorists and one of their main communication centres has been dismantled,” the ISPR states.

Around seven fleeing terrorists were also killed on the outskirts of Mirali last night. In a separate sniper action by Special Service Group, three terrorists were killed when they were planting IEDs close to Miramshah.

Three soldiers were injured last night in exchange of fire between army men and terrorists around Mirali.

June 16, 2:39pm

“We will rid the country of terrorists,” Army Chief General Raheel Sharif says, speaking about the operation in North Waziristan. He adds that the operation will continue until all terrorists are eliminated.

Pakistani soldiers heading towards North Waziristan. PHOTO: AFP

June 16, 2:31pm

Our defence correspondent Kamran Yousaf tells us that at least seven suspected militants were killed in the Shawal area in the first ground encounter between security forces and militants since the army moved into North Waziristan Agency.

A senior security official tells The Express Tribune that a shootout took place in early hours on Monday.

This is the first reported encounter between the army and militants on the ground as earlier militants were killed in air strikes.

Giving details about the operation, the official tells our defence correspondent that militants were surrounded by the army in the overnight raid with the intention to capture them alive. However, the official adds, the militants opened fired and were killed in the shootout.

June 16, 2:25pm

The Sindh Assembly passes a unanimous resolution, supporting army operation in North Waziristan.

For more details, read here.

June 16, 2:22pm

The press release further states: “Operation in North Waziristan Agency is progressing as per plan. No operation in civil populated areas has been started so far. North Waziristan Agency has been isolated by deploying troops along its border with neighbouring agencies and Fata regions to block any move of terrorists in and out of the Agency.”

A Pakistan Army convoy heads towards North Waziristan in Bannu district. PHOTO: AFP

June 16, 2:18pm

ISPR says security has been beefed up in all major cities and towns and at sensitive installations across the country by civil administration.

“Army troops have been alerted and forward placed to assist law enforcement agencies. They will remain at designated places and whenever asked by civil administration will be employed in case of emergency,” ISPR adds.

June 16, 2:15pm

In its latest press release, ISPR says jet aircraft destroyed six hideouts in Shawal, killing 27 suspected militants. “There was no civil population in the area,” the press release states.

June 16, 10:52am

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says this operation will continue till the surrender or elimination of enemy.

June 16, 10:35am

Pakistan Air Force launches fresh air strikes in North Waziristan as part of Zarb-e-Azb operation - a long-awaited offensive to eliminate militants from their border stronghold.

A local security official says fighter jets bombed two buildings west of Miramshah – the main town of North Waziristan – early Monday killing at least 10 Uzbek militants who were sheltering in them.

June 15, 11:04pm

The defence minister has said that dialogue was not honoured by the Taliban and the government got frustrated by attacks on innocent Pakistanis and national assets.

June 15, 10:26pm

ISPR has also released a detailed statement on the North Waziristan operation. You can read the entire press release here.

According to the statement, eight hideouts of terrorists were destroyed and 105 terrorists, mostly Uzbek foreigners, were killed.

“As of now North Wazirastan Agency has been isolated by deploying troops along its border with neighboring agencies and FATA Regions to block any move of terrorists in and out of the Agency,” said the statement, adding that within the agency, troops have moved and cordoned off all terrorists bases, including in the town of Mirali and Miramshah.

“Announcements will be made for local population to approach designated areas for their orderly and dignified evacuation out of the Agency. Meanwhile, aerial surveillance of the area is being carried out by own aerial surveillance platforms,” the statement added.

Further, the statement added that Afghan security forces have also been requested to seal the border on their side to facilitate the operation. “They have also been requested to initiate immediate measures to eliminate TTP terrorists and their sanctuaries in Kunar, Nuristan and other areas of Afghanistan.”

June 15, 10:19pm

ISPR has given the first two official updates regarding the operation on the ground.

The DG ISPR has tweeted that all potential terrorists bases have been cordoned off and the civilian population will be allowed to leave. Further, an IDP camp has also been established.

June 15, 9:52pm

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is expected to take Parliament into confidence on Monday about the government’s decision to launch a military operation in North Waziristan.

June 15, 9:02pm

Information Minister Pervez Rashid has appealed to all political parties to stand by the army during the operation. He went on to add that the militants will either drop their weapons or face defeat, Express News reported.

June 15, 8:45pm

A military official in the main North Waziristan town of Miramshah told AFP that the coordinated operation – involving airforce, artillery, tanks and ground troops – has already started.

After the announcement of the full-scale operation in the North Waziristan area, a security official on ground said that thousands of troops have been moved for action.
“Thousands of troops will participate in this action. You can roughly say 25,000 to 30,000 troops will be involved in the operation,” the official said on the condition of anonymity because he is not allowed to speak to media.

June 15, 7:50pm

Talking to Express News, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the government went through with peace talks, but once they failed the government decided to launch military action. He went on to add that civilians residing in that area will face difficulties due to the operation, but the government is prepared to assist them.

“The army is ready and citizens should remain calm army is prepared to deal with difficult situations and will help civilians move,” he said, adding that air and ground forces are fully ready to act and will bring complete peace to the area.

“We will complete the operation as soon as possible,” he added.

Asif said that the decision of the operation against terrorists reflects the wishes of people of the country.

In a statement on Sunday, he said the government fully tried to resolve the issue through dialogue. He said the decision of the operation is taken thoughtfully, keeping in view all options.

The defence minister said the operation is need of the hour and would continue till complete elimination of the enemies.

He said the Pakistani nation is with the armed forces of the country. The minister expressed confidence that the operation will be a success of our armed forces.

June 15, 7:19pm

The meaning of Zarb-e-Azb is sharp and cutting. It’s reportedly the sword used by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in the battle of Badar.

June 15, 6:59pm

ISPR press release announces launch of military operation.

“DG ISPR has said that on the directions of the Government, Armed forces of Pakistan have launched a comprehensive operation against foreign and local terrorists who are hiding in sanctuaries in North Waziristan Agency. The operation has been named Zarb-e-Azb,” said the press release.

The ISPR statement went on to add that terrorists in North Waziristan had waged a war against the state of Pakistan and had been disrupting life in all its dimensions, stunting our economic growth and causing enormous loss of life and property. “They had also paralysed life within the agency and had perpetually terrorised the entire peace loving and patriotic local population,” the statement added.

“Our valiant armed forces have been tasked to eliminate these terrorists regardless of hue and colour, along with their sanctuaries. With the support of the entire nation, and in coordination with other state institutions and Law Enforcement Agencies, these enemies of the state will be denied space anywhere across the country. As always, armed forces of Pakistan will not hesitate in rendering any sacrifice for the motherland,” said the statement.

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Friday, 11 July 2014

Zarb-e-Azb updates: Registration of IDPs continues in Peshawar

Zarb-e-Azb updates: Registration of IDPs continues in Peshawar

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