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Page last updated at 09:44 GMT, Sunday, 11 October 2009 10:44 UK

Clinton warns on Pakistan threat

Troops return to base after operation - photo 11 October
Security forces freed more than 40 hostages at the Rawalpindi base

The US secretary of state has said that a militant attack on Pakistan's army HQ is evidence of an increasing threat against the authority of the state.

Speaking in London, Mrs Clinton said that despite the attack, the US had confidence in Pakistan's control over its nuclear weapons.

The attack, which began on Saturday and turned into a siege, ended hours ago after hostages were released.

Correspondents say the attack is highly embarrassing for Pakistan's leaders.

"Yesterday was another reminder that extremists ... are increasingly threatening the authority of the state, but we see no evidence they are going to take over the state," Mrs Clinton said.

"We have confidence in the Pakistani government and military's control over its nuclear weapons," she added.

Major operation

UK Foreign Secretary David Miliband said Pakistan faced a "mortal threat", but there was no risk of its nuclear weapons falling into terrorist hands.

On Sunday morning Pakistani security forces freed more than 40 hostages held at the base, in the city of Rawalpindi.

Military officials said three hostages and two soldiers died in the operation along with at least four militants. Four militants and six soldiers died in the initial attack.

The attack came as the army was preparing for a major operation against the Taliban, which officials say have claimed responsibility.



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