Mumbai hotel siege drags on

A major military operation is underway at one of Mumbai’s besieged hotels, as terrorists continue to defy Indian soldiers and police massed outside. Shots and explosions rocked the Taj Palace hotel, where at least one militant is still holed-up.

More than 130 people are known to have died in the Mumbai attacks, and India has pointed the finger of blame at its traditional rival, Pakistan. At least one of the gunmen seized by police has Pakistani nationality, and India has demanded Pakistan cracks down on terrorists.

Battles are also raging at Mumbai’s Jewish Centre, Nariman House, with commandos attacking the building from the air. It is thought at least six Israeli nationals are being held hostage inside.
Indian security chiefs have privately acknowledged the terrorists’ professionalism, saying they were obviously well-trained and had carried out careful reconnaissance of their targets.

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tags: India