Pakistani troops have launched fresh attacks on hideouts of pro-Taliban militants in the northwest as insurgency and violence continues to plague the country.

Seven militants were killed in early Thursday clashes between Pakistani security forces and militants as part of Islamabad's ongoing military offensive against Tehrik-e-Taliban (TTP) militants holed up in South Waziristan.

The conflicts, which also left five insurgents injured, took place separately in Sherongi, Laddha Road, Momi karam, Kopt Kai and Sararogha areas of the troubled northwestern province.

South Waziristan is believed to be hosting thousands of TTP fighters who are blamed for over 80 percent of terror attacks and bombings across Pakistan.

On Wednesday, a deadly bomb blast ripped through a crowded marketplace in Peshawar, killing at least 105 people, many of whom women, and wounding 200 others.

The attack drew strong condemnations from the United States and Britain, as well as the UN chief Ban Ki-Moon, who said no cause could justify the 'appalling' act of terror.

The toll from Wednesday's attack topped the over 200 people killed in October alone in insurgents' attacks mostly blamed on al-Qaeda and Taliban-linked militants.

In an email sent to the media, the TTP, however, denied involvement in Peshawar's bombing. An al-Qaeda statement cited in the News International denounced the attack as part of an effort by Western elements to defame the extremist group.

TTP insurgents had earlier threatened to continue their terrorist attacks, as long as the army proceeds with its offensive in the lawless tribal areas near the Afghan border.

MRS/AKM