Swat Valley

Over two million IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons; refugees), mostly fleeing the treat of indiscriminate heavy weapons fire by the Army.

Repeated claims by the Pakistani Army that they are "about to" recapture Mingora.

Things are not quite working out as planned for the expected set-piece between the Pakistani Taliban and the Army.

"You cannot distinguish between a Talib and a normal citizen," said Maj. Gen. Sajjad Ali, who commands troops in the northern portion of Swat. "The area is densely populated, and it's very easy for the terrorists to hide."

Uh huh.

Why is anyone surprised?