The US defense secretary says his country is trying to understand ground realities before taking any action inside northwestern Pakistan.

"We're trying to make sure we understand the ground truth before we take any action so that it is not misperceived," The Daily Times quoted Robert Gates as saying.

"We're assessing what value we could have, or any other ally could have, in contributing to their security," he added.

"This has always been an area that has not been fully under the control of the Pakistani government or where there has been a significant military presence," he added.

Washington is reportedly considering military operations inside Pakistan allegedly to hunt militants who use the country's tribal regions as hideouts.

US-led forces have already launched several air strikes on North Waziristan and in the Bajaur tribal area, killing dozens of civilians.

JR/RE/HAR