PESHAWAR: Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif was briefed here on Saturday on military operations being conducted against militants in North Waziristan and Khyber tribal regions.

According to Inter Services Public Relations, Gen Sharif during a visit to the corps headquarters reviewed progress on Operations Zarb-i-Azb and Khyber-1 and was briefed about the next phase of these operations.

He expressed satisfaction on achievements made in the two conflict areas so far and appreciated the spirit and commitment of troops in sustaining the operations.

He lauded sacrifices rendered by officers and men in operations. He was briefed on the return strategy being prepared for people displaced from North Waziristan Agency and the rehabilitation of areas affected by fighting.

Over half a million civilians have been evacuated from North Waziristan and almost the same number of people have to leave their houses in Khyber Agency. The army chief said early return of the displaced people was top priority and directed officials concerned to start preparation for the purpose.

On his arrival at the corps headquarters, Gen Sharif was received by Lt Gen Hidayatur Rehman.

Published in Dawn, December 7th, 2014