Sir: According to media reports, an operation has been launched against the Taliban in North Waziristan. Jet aircraft had bombed various hideouts of the militants, killing some important leaders of the Taliban and other groups operating in the region, both foreign and local. No doubt, North Waziristan has become the militants’ powerful sanctuary with thousands of militants believed to have taken refuge there. The attack on the militants could be seen as the response to the killing of 23 FC officials by the Taliban. But I am still surprised why the action has been taken now, so late? North Waziristan is a safe haven not only to the TTP but also other militant groups, including the Haqqani network. Pakistan’s allies in the war against terrorism have been asking Pakistan to take action against these groups as they are responsible for suicide bombings in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistani intelligence agencies have been well aware of the presence of these groups but no solid action was taken so far in this regard. In the absence of political will, any operation against these militants would be a far-fetched dream. The government is still unable to decide what to do with the militants who have killed thousands of our soldiers and other security officers. Reportedly, more than 1,500 families have recently fled from North Waziristan fearing a military operation. Did anyone ever observe how many militants might also have escaped with those families? The government is still confused and is indecisive about formulating a proper strategy to combat these militants. For example, Jalaludin Haqqani, the chief of the Haqqani network has been living in Miranshah for many years, and with the complete consent of the armed forces. Pakistan is paying a heavy price in the name of the war on terror. After the withdrawal of NATO forces from Afghanistan, Pakistan will have to strive hard to maintain peace. The government will have to uproot the seeds of militancy from its soil on immediate basis. Otherwise, a further delay would only make us more helpless. JAVED ALI KALHORO Islamabad