THE United States started drone attacks on Pakistan in 2004 in the name of ‘war on terror’. It resulted in thousands of casualties in the country. The drone strikes increased significantly during the Obama administration as compared to the Bush government.

According to statistics of the New American Foundation, 1,861 to 2,856 people have been killed in 309 strikes from 2004 to 2012.

While another research by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism shows that a total of 2,496 to 3,209 people have been killed of which 482 to 832 were civilians, 175 children, while the total number of injured were 1,196 to 1,318.

According to the bureau, there were 52 strikes under the Bush administration, while 282 during the current Obama government. A total of 334 drone attacks have been carried out since 2004.

The condition is alarming. The series of drone attacks is being referred to as ‘drone war’ against Pakistan. A recent drone strike, which reportedly killed 20 people, was a tribute for reopening Nato supply routes.

These drone attacks are increasing anti-American sentiments among the people of Pakistan. These attacks are adversely affecting the so-called ‘war on terror’.

I fully agree with the suggestions given by Mr Munir Akram in his article ‘Distant killer” (July 8). Pakistan should raise its voice at international forums and organisations against these illegal attacks which are killing innocent people.

These strikes are against human rights and the UN charter. Pakistan should use diplomatic pressure to restrain the US from carrying out drone attacks.

MUZZAMIL HUSSAIN Bhakkar