Pakistani intelligence officials say troops backed by helicopters have killed at least four militants in a rare clash between the two sides in the country's northwest tribal region.

Officials say the battle broke out Wednesday in the town of Miranshah in North Waziristan after the militants attacked Pakistani soldiers.

Five soldiers and five militants were wounded in the clash.

North Waziristan is a known sanctuary for al-Qaida and Taliban militants.

Also Wednesday, officials say militants from Afghanistan launched a cross-border attack into Pakistan's Upper Dir region. There was no immediate word of any casualties.