Generals satisfied with preparedness

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Pakistani Army Chief Gen. Ashfaq Kayani and his generals are satisfied with the military's preparedness in its counterinsurgency operation, officials said.

Kayani met with corps commanders Wednesday in Islamabad and the participants expressed satisfaction about preparedness and the successful conduct of the nearly monthlong offensive against terror groups in South Waziristan, Dawn newspaper reported.

Thus far, the military has claimed its security forces have killed more than 400 militants and gained much ground in the battle area, while keeping its casualties low.

However, 10 soldiers reportedly died in separate incidents Wednesday in the troubled northwest region, including a land-mine blast and an ambush by militants. At least nine other soldiers were reported missing in the battle that followed the ambush.

Kayani condemned the recent wave of deadly terrorist attacks on civilians across the country, saying the attacks would only strengthen the nation's resolve to eliminate terrorism.

A Pakistani security official, when asked about a reported comment by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton that Pakistan realized the need to go beyond South Waziristan, said with their successful operation the security forces were consolidating their gains, Dawn said.

"When we regain balance, it starts radiating vibes around and the possibility of new options starts opening up, more than just a military operation," he said.