A Pakistani newspaper says Pakistan has decided to launch a "careful and meticulous" air and ground offensive in the North Waziristan tribal region, known as a sanctuary for al-Qaida and the Taliban on Pakistan's border with Afghanistan.

reported Monday that "highly placed sources" say an understanding had been reached on the operation during U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's visit to Pakistan last week.

Report: Pakistan to Launch Operation in North Waziristan

Theunnamed sources told the newspaper the offensive would begin with the Pakistani air force "softening" the determined targets, before ground operations were launched.

Report: Pakistan to Launch Operation in North Waziristan

The newspaper says NATO leaders, especially Washington, have long insisted Pakistan conduct a military offensive in the tribal region.

Report: Pakistan to Launch Operation in North Waziristan

The publication reports Pakistan will decide on the mode of action and its scale.

Meanwhile, Pakistani officials say a blast Monday in Miranshah, the main town of North Waziristan has wounded at least 10 people.