Summary
More than 70,000 people have left Tirah, a region in northwestern Pakistan, due to fears of a military operation against the Pakistan Taliban. The government says bad weather, rather than military actions, is causing the exodus. Local authorities dispute this, and there are ongoing tensions about the possibility of military involvement in the area.
Key Facts
- Over 70,000 people, mainly women and children, have fled Tirah, a region bordering Afghanistan.
- Fears of a military offensive against the Pakistan Taliban prompted many to leave.
- Pakistan’s Defence Minister says no military operation is planned, citing weather as the cause for the migration.
- The exodus started after announcements urged residents to leave by January 23 to avoid conflict.
- The Tirah area has a history of military activity, including a recent campaign against the Taliban in Bajaur.
- Local authorities blame the federal government for the hardships faced by the displaced.
- Approximately 10,000 families have registered as displaced, with an extended deadline until February 5.
- Residents report recent violence, including mortar explosions, causing deaths and injuries.
