Hassankhel residents protest drone strikes

PESHAWAR: Residents of Hassankhel tehsil held a protest outside the Peshawar Press Club on Monday, urging the federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments to act against what they described as repeated drone strikes in their area.

The demonstration drew local residents along with members of different political parties, students and civil society activists. Speakers at the protest alleged that the strikes had caused civilian deaths, including among women and children, and had also left a wider impact on daily life in the area.

According to the protesters, public infrastructure had also suffered damage. They said roads, schools and mosques were among the places affected, adding that the situation had created difficulties for local communities.

The protesters called on the provincial and federal governments to announce compensation for civilians killed or injured in the reported strikes and to ensure medical treatment for the wounded. They also demanded steps to restore peace and strengthen security in Hassankhel, saying uncertainty in the area had disrupted normal life.