Pakistanis hail cease-fire by militants in violent tribal region

PAKISTAN: Villagers living along Pakistan's volatile border with Afghanistan welcomed a temporary cease-fire by pro-Taliban fighters, but called for a permanent end to the violence between security forces and militants that has reportedly killed some 370 people this year.

Taliban fighters and their local supporters had stepped up attacks in recent months against troops deployed in North Waziristan to combat militancy along the Afghan border.

Militants on Monday declared an 11-day cease-fire to enable people and clerics from across the country to attend a religious gathering in Miran Shah, the main town in North Waziristan.

Despite the short-term nature of the cease-fire, residents called it a good step and prayed that it would remain in place longer. "We didn't hear any gunshots last night after months (of gunfire). We appeal to both sides to end the fighting permanently," said Khan Zada, 23, a shop owner.

Zada, like dozens of others, had been forced to shut his business for several days in March and April after bloody clashes broke out following an attack on a military post. The violence spread to several towns and villages.

Sardar Hussain, a local trader, also welcomed the cease-fire, saying it was "good news" and "we are happy" to hear it.

On Tuesday, Tarqi Jamil, a purported spokesman for local Islamic militants, said the cease-fire was to enable people to attend a religious gathering organized by Tablighi Jamaat, or Group of Preachers.

However, he vowed that the militants would defend themselves with "full force" if attacked.

The army spokesman was not immediately available for comment.

The government three years ago offered a general amnesty for foreign fighters and asked them to register with the local authorities. In return they would not be arrested and allowed to live with their families.

But none came forward, fearing they might be turned over to the U.S. by Pakistan, a key ally of the United States in its war on terror. Pakistan has deployed more than 80,000 troops in the tribal areas to capture or kill militants.

The region is also suspected to be a hiding place for al-Qaida operatives, some of whom have been have been killed by the military in recent years.

Miran Shan, Wednesday, AP.