Pakistan zeroes in on major Taliban bases

he army launched a major assault in South Waziristan on Sept. 17 to seize control of the lawless land after a string of attacks by militants, including a stunning assault on the army headquarters that killed more than 150 people.

Makeen is described as "the nerve centre" of the militants while Sararogha, about 20 km (13 miles) southeast of Makeen, houses a strategic fort manned by a paramilitary force until it was captured outdoor house Inflatable Obstacle by the Taliban last year after killing several soldiers and taking dozens hostage.

The offensive is a major test for the Pakistani government and the military to stem the rising tide of Islamist militancy and is being closely followed by the United States and other Western nations embroiled in Afghanistan's growing conflict.

The military says an "important phase" of its three-pronged offensive has begun as troops had reached the outskirts of Sararogha and Makeen, two main bases of the militants in treacherous mountainous terrain.

"Security forces have surrounded Makeen from three directions," the military said in a statement.

Security officials said military jets and helicopter gunships pounded militant positions in and around Makeen during the battle.

The military says government forces have laid siege to Sararogha, captured all the important features and ridges overlooking the town and cleared half of Kaniguram, a hub of Uzbek militants