US ‘gave wrong attack location’

American officials gave Pakistani soldiers the wrong location when asking for clearance to attack militants last weekend, in a strike that resulted in the deaths of 24 soldiers, Pakistani military officials have said.

The claim was the latest in a series by officials in both countries trying to explain what happened before and during last week’s bombing by US aircraft of two Pakistani checkpoints on the Afghan border.

Nato and the US have expressed regret for the loss of lives, but have rejected Pakistani allegations that it was a deliberate act of aggression.

Thousands took to the streets across Pakistan after Friday prayers yesterday to protest against the air strike. Some called on the army to attack the US-led coalition in Afghanistan.