President Obama has made it clear that success for U.S. efforts to stabilize Afghanistan depends in large part on what happens in Pakistan. But analysts say his new strategy for the region places huge demand on Pakistan and creates tension between the two countries — something that became evident during a recent visit by U.S. officials. Full Story »
Posted by Derek Hawkins
We give the Pakistani's billions of dollars, and they expect no conditions. What the hell do we need them for if not for their help in defeating terrorism. They give the Taliban part of their country, and they immediately put Islamic Law in place. Flogging little girls. Cutting people's heads off. And we'er supposed to have no conditions. Start cutting funds and I guarantee they will start to see it our way.
The Taliban are nothing but liars and thieves. And you can believe that the ISI have their palms greased at regular intervals.
An interesting and evocative article. Thes resistance by Pakistan to be held to any accountabilty is truly interesting. Good information and set the solid backdrop for moving forward.
Its very obvious that Pakistan is slipping into a Taliban run state. Their resebntment of having to account for their Government Welfare from us..is absurd. The US should get MUCH MUCH MUCH tougher. Deception is obvious here by them.
This NPR report provides up-to-the-moment, detailed information, and explores the precarious dynamics of diplomatic interactions with Pakistan. The reporting is objective and thorough, well sourced and compelling.
I thought the reaction to Holbrook's discussion of ISI involvement was particularly noteworthy. Everyone knows it (as in "naming the elephant in the livingroom" )but the government of Pakistan was offended that their "friends" would dare to say it out loud. I'm pleased that our government is prepared to risk causing offense, given that we've demanded so little accountability thus far.
That US relationships with Pakistan are dicey is not news. That the problems have been brewing for years is not news. This article tries to add some perspective, quoting various sources. The key lies towards the end, when there's a quote about trying to recalibrate a relationship in the middle of a war. This administration's problem is that it has inherited a historic mess, and is trying to find a way to clean it up so that both parties gain.
Besides, if we don't have Pakistan there are all those former Soviet 'istans' that are really nasty. Pakistan is at least itself struggling to find a new direction.
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