Eighteen people were killed after suicide bombers attacked a military facility in Pakistan's northwest on Tuesday.



Authorities say two vehicles loaded with explosives rammed the wall surrounding the military base in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The explosion killed 13 civilians and five soldiers. The military said it "eliminated 16 terrorists, including four suicide bombers."



The explosion severely damaged nearby houses and a mosque during the holy month of Ramadan.



A man who witnessed the explosion said he lost his uncle. He also said people were busy breaking their fast when the explosion occurred. He also said all he could do was pray.



A militant group affiliated with the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack.



The military has released a statement, saying Afghan nationals were involved. It also stressed that Pakistan has the right to take necessary measures to deal with threats.