VOICED: Bloody battle looms for Pakistan's Swat capital

The transcript discusses the ongoing military offensive in the Swat Valley against suspected Taliban hideouts. The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis, with over 100,000 civilians attempting to flee. The military has used heavy artillery and helicopters, resulting in significant militant casualties, but civilian casualties remain unreported. The situation in Mingora is dire, with basic medical facilities and mined roads. Analysts warn of a potential bloodbath if civilians are not evacuated. The transcript calls for peace and dialogue to resolve the conflict.

What event triggered the military offensive in the Swat Valley?

• A natural disaster

• Islamist fighters advancing close to Islamabad

• A peace treaty

• A political election

What was the response of civilians when the curfew was relaxed in Swat?

• They ignored the relaxation

• They returned to their homes

• They scrambled to leave the city

• They organized protests

What is the main request from those facing terrible conditions in Swat Valley?

• To evacuate all civilians

• To stop the operation and solve the issue through dialogue

• To continue military operations

• To increase military presence

What has the army relied on during the offensive in the Swat Valley?

• Economic sanctions

• Heavy artillery and helicopters

• Diplomatic negotiations

• Cyber warfare

What do analysts predict if civilians are not evacuated from Mingora?

• An economic boom

• A peaceful resolution

• A potential bloodbath

• A political coup