Retaliation not operation in N Waziristan: Tanveer

ISLAMABAD: Minister of Defence Production, Rana Tanveer Wednesday termed the military offensive launched in North Waziristan as a ‘retaliation’ and that it should not be seen as an ‘operation’ while the decision to choose between talks and crackdown will be made soon.

Speaking to media here, Tanveer said a decision to retaliate following attacks on security forces was taken jointly by the government and army.

He informed the media that contact had been made with six prominent militant groups, adding that there are 60 groups which also include foreign elements.

Meanwhile, sources have revealed that 33 militants killed in military strikes in North Waziristan belong to Uzbekistan while three were from Germany.