U.S. envoy hears strikes complaints

Pakistan’s government summoned U.S. Ambassador Anne W. Patterson to protest missile strikes on suspected militant hide-outs near the Afghan border and urge their immediate halt.

The drone strikes have killed at least two Al Qaeda commanders, putting some pressure on extremist groups accused of planning attacks in Afghanistan -- and perhaps terrorist strikes in the West.

However, the increasing frequency of the strikes has strained America’s seven-year alliance with Pakistan, where rising violence is exacerbating economic problems.