Tensions Escalate in North Waziristan Amid String of Deadly Attacks

Tensions are mounting in North Waziristan, where authorities have enforced Section 144 for a month in response to escalating security threats, as reported by ARY News. Under the new directives issued by the Deputy Commissioner, pillion riding, large gatherings, and the entry of unauthorized vehicles have been prohibited.

A curfew was imposed Monday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., shutting down all entry-exit points and main roads to facilitate the movement of security forces. Officials urged public cooperation to uphold peace, ARY News highlighted. The situation followed a devastating incident in Mir Ali where a suicide bomber attacked a security convoy, resulting in the loss of 13 soldiers and injuries to civilians, including children, as detailed by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The ISPR identified the assailants as members of Fitna-al-Khawarij, with The Dawn confirming the deaths. "The vehicle-borne attacker targeted the convoy in a desperate attempt," an ISPR statement noted. KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur condemned the attack, lauding the sacrifices of security forces in the fight against terrorism.

District Police Officer Waqar Ahmed confirmed civilian casualties from the attack, which occurred amidst ongoing conflict in the region. No group has officially claimed responsibility. The attack contributes to Pakistan's heightened terrorism threat, highlighted by disturbing statistics from the Global Terrorism Index and the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

(With inputs from agencies.)