Suspected U.S. Drone Attack Targets Compound In Northwest Pakistan

The Pakistani government has repeatedly protested against drone strikes, saying they kill civilians and are a violation of the country's sovereignty.

At least three people have been reported killed in a suspected U.S. drone attack in Pakistan's restive tribal region along the Afghanistan border.

Local officials said the unmanned aircraft on August 31 fired missiles targeting a compound in the Mir Ali area of North Waziristan, one of seven tribal districts where Taliban and Al-Qaeda-linked militants are hiding.

Local officials said the identity of those killed was not yet known.

The Pakistani government has repeatedly protested against drone strikes, saying they kill civilians and are a violation of the country's sovereignty.

The United States says they are a vital tool in the fight against extremists.

During a visit to Islamabad earlier this month, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said drone strikes could end "soon."

Based on reporting by AFP and dpa