Why Protest Erupts After Pakistan Air Force Strike Kills 30 in Khyber Valley

At least 30 people are dead after a Pakistan Air Force strike hit a remote village. The incident occurred early Monday in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The attack targeted the Matre Dara village in Tirah Valley.

Local reports confirm women and children were among the dead. The military says it was targeting Taliban militants in the area.

Details of the Deadly Airstrike

According to the Associated Press, the air force dropped eight LS-6 bombs. The strike happened around 2 a.m. local time. A senior police officer stated the target was a compound used by militants.

Police claim Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters were using the site. They allege it was a bomb-making factory. The initial blast triggered secondary explosions from stored materials.

The death toll is expected to rise. Several houses were damaged or destroyed in the attack. Rescue efforts are ongoing in the difficult terrain.

Outcry and Accusations Follow Attack

The strike has sparked significant protest and condemnation. Opposition politicians have accused the government of targeting civilians. About 2,000 people gathered to protest the deaths on Monday.

A member of the provincial assembly, Abdul Ghani Afridi, called the event a “crime against humanity.” He described the scene as a “minor apocalypse” filled with the corpses of children. The government has not yet issued an official statement.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressed deep shock. It demanded an immediate and impartial inquiry into the incident. According to AFP, the commission called for those responsible to be held accountable.

The Pakistan Air Force strike highlights the severe human cost of ongoing counter-terrorism operations. This Khyber Valley incident underscores the complex challenges facing the region.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the target of the Pakistan Air Force strike?

The military stated the target was a compound used by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants. Police reported the site was being used as a bomb-making factory.

How many people were killed in the airstrike?

Initial reports confirm at least 30 people were killed. The victims included women and children. The death toll may increase as rescue operations continue.

Has the Pakistani government commented on the incident?

As of now, the Pakistani government has not released an official statement. The silence has drawn criticism from opposition parties and human rights groups.

What has been the local reaction to the airstrike?

Local reactions include a protest by approximately 2,000 people. Political leaders and human rights organizations have condemned the high civilian casualty count.

Why is militant activity increasing in Pakistan?

Militant attacks have risen significantly. Analysts note the TTP has grown more confident since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in neighboring Afghanistan in 2021.