NATO forces carry out airstrikes in Pakistan

[unhappycamper]

NATO forces carry out airstrikes in Pakistan
By SEBASTIAN ABBOT, Associated Press Writer Sebastian Abbot, Associated Press Writer – 1 hr 37 mins ago

ISLAMABAD – NATO helicopters based in Afghanistan carried out at least two airstrikes in Pakistan that killed more than 50 militants after the insurgents attacked a small Afghan security outpost near the border, spokesmen said Monday.

NATO justified the strikes based on "the right of self-defense." Pakistan is sensitive about attacks on its territory, but U.S. officials have said they have an agreement that allows aircraft to cross a few miles into Pakistani airspace if they are in hot pursuit of a target.

The first strike took place Saturday after insurgents based in Pakistan attacked an Afghan outpost in Khost province, which is located right across the border from Pakistan's North Waziristan tribal area, said U.S. Capt. Ryan Donald, a spokesman for the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.

"The ISAF helicopters did cross into Pakistan territory to engage the insurgents," said Donald. "ISAF maintains the right to self-defense, and that's why they crossed the Pakistan border."

The strike killed 49 militants, said U.S. Maj. Michael Johnson, another ISAF spokesman.

[howard112211]

1. Right to self defense while trespassing?

So if I invade someones home and he pulls a weapon in response, I get to kill them?

[malaise]

2. Indeed

Up to 54 of them. :puke:

[Possumpoint]

3. In War

If a group of men invade your house and attack you, you have the right, if not obligation to pursue them back to their house and return the favor. If not, they will return time and again to invade your house.