Pakistan’s military and government officials deserve commendation for reaching an agreement with a jirga of tribal elders from the Tirah Valley that will allow for the large-scale evacuation of the area ahead of a military operation against militants. Asking long-settled families to leave their homes, knowing that their possessions may soon lie in a battlefield, is never easy. Yet the state’s decision to provide generous compensation — including indemnities for partially or fully damaged houses, monthly allowances, upfront payments and free medical care — demonstrates a clear recognition of the sacrifices being made by these civilians. This........

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