Kayani appeals to Mehsud tribe to revolt against Taliban

In a move to isolate Tehrik-e-Taliban, Pakistan Army chief Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has appealed to the Mehsud tribe, linked to Hakimullah Mehsud, to support the ongoing offensive in Waziristan as it was aimed at liberating them from the clutches of "ruthless terrorists".

As the crucial operation entered the fourth day, Kayani's appeal, air-dropped as leaflets in the lawless tribal region, was addressed to the Mehsud tribe hailing them as "respectable and patriotic" tribesmen.

"The aim of the current military operation is not to target the self-respecting and patriotic Mehsuds but its purpose is to liberate them from the clutches of ruthless terrorists who have destroyed the peace of the entire region," Kayani said.

He also lauded the Mehsud tribe's services for the defence of Pakistan.

The Pakistan military, according to media reports, is also trying to gain the support of other tribal groups and heads, and has reached an agreement with two major groups led by Maulvi Naseer and Hafiz Gul Bahadur to stay out of the conflict.

"The Pakistan Army's aim is to provide the Mehsuds an opportunity to live in peace in their area. I am hopeful that the Mehsud tribe will side with the Pakistani military in this operation and will rise up as one against these ruthless terrorists so that Pakistan's green flag will once again flutter with full glory in Mehsud lands," he said.