Islamabad – The Taliban on Monday warned international organiations to leave Pakistan or face further violence.

The warning came a day after the Pakistani military announced Operation Zarb-e-Azb against local and foreign militants hiding in the North Waziristan tribal region on the Afghan border.

Shahidullah Shahid, Taliban spokesman said there was a state of war. “Therefore, all international investors, airlines and institutions should immediately suspend all relations with Pakistan and leave the country.

He said they would be responsible for any loss or harm to them if they failed to heed the warning.

There was no immediate reaction to the threat by the government in Islamabad.

Military spokesman Maj.-General Asim Bajwa on Sunday announced the launch of the operation in North Waziristan.

He said over 105 militants, mostly Uzbeks, had been killed by the army, and the area had been surrounded by troops.

Bajwa said surrender points had been set up for militants who choose to give up their arms, while Pakistan had asked Afghanistan to seal its border with North Waziristan.

– dpa/NAN