38 militants killed in NW Pakistan

Official sources said that government troops targeted militant hideouts in Jogi area of Kurram Agency on Wednesday, killing 18 militants and injuring several others.

In another operation, at least 20 militants were killed and 13 others wounded after Pakistani war planes shelled militants' hideouts in Upper Orakzai Agency early on Wednesday. Local officials confirmed the air strikes.

Officials say five hideouts were destroyed and that the death toll may go up.

At least 10 soldiers and 40 militants were killed in Kurram Agency during clashes on Tuesday.

According to Pakistani media, over 35,000 people have lost their lives in bombings and other militant attacks since 2001when Pakistan entered an alliance with the US on the so-called war against terrorism.

Thousands more have been displaced by the wave of violence and militancy sweeping across the country.