As Pakistan made fresh gains in its anti-militant drive in South Waziristan, the United States said it is pleased with success of the operation, taking place along Pak-Afghan border region considered critical to security efforts in both countries. State Department Spokesman, Ian Kelly also reaffirmed Washington's commitment to back the ally with economic and security assistance.
"We've been very supportive of their offensive in South Waziristan and supportive of their efforts to deal with the problem of the violent extremists in the region," Kelly stated when asked to comment on Pakistan's capture of some strategic towns including Sararogha, which until recently were feared as Taliban strongholds. The Obama administration says Pakistan's anti-Taliban achievements in Swat in the summer and South Waziristan currently have boosted its confidence in the country's ability to rout the militants.