The Taliban struck an army checkpoint in Northwest Pakistan on Saturday morning, killing 13 soldiers and 10 civilians and wounding another eight. The assault lasted several hours and additionally killed 12 of the attacking militants, some of whom were allegedly suicide bombers. Taking credit for the attack, the Pakistani Taliban claimed it was in retaliation for a U.S. drone strike that killed two commanders in January. The group is angry with the government of Pakistan for cooperating in such operations, which it has occasionally privately sanctioned. However, the government more often openly criticizes such attacks. Between 25 and 30 militants were involved in Saturday’s assault.
