Drone Strike Destroys School In North Waziristan, Curfew Imposed

On February 26, 2026, a drone strike devastated the Government High School Shamazan Kot in North Waziristan, destroying nearly 80% of the building just days before schools were set to reopen on March 1. Fortunately, the attack occurred late at night when the school was unoccupied, sparing students and staff from casualties. Local officials are investigating the incident, with a senior district official stating, "Security for educational institutions will be tightened immediately," reflecting the heightened anxiety in a region already fraught with educational challenges. Residents expressed anger and fear, with a tribal elder lamenting, "Education is already struggling here. If schools are targeted, what future awaits our children?" This incident underscores the persistent threats to education in volatile areas, as similar attacks have occurred previously, including one that injured children and a teacher weeks prior.