In pictures: Pakistan fighting

1 of 7 Pakistan's military began its operation against suspected al-Qaeda militants and tribesmen protecting them in South Waziristan on the Afghan border nine days ago.

2 of 7 Armed forces used artillery pieces to pound mud-walled compounds where the militants were holed up and believed to be sheltering a leader of importance, thought initially to be al-Qaeda number two Ayman al-Zawahri.

3 of 7 The militants surprised the army with fierce resistance - around 30 soldiers have so far been killed in the operation and more than 100 militants and tribesmen arrested.

4 of 7 The operation has drawn stiff opposition from many residents in the traditionally conservative, semi-autonomous tribal area.

5 of 7 A loya jirga, or tribal council meeting, was held in the regional headquarters of Wana on Wednesday to decide on a response to the fighting.

6 of 7 Many families have been forced to flee the heavy fighting. There are fears that the operation could spark violent retaliation in other parts of Pakistan.

7 of 7 Children and other civilians have been caught up in the fighting, but the army says it will continue the operation until all the militants surrender.