July 24: US officials have given clear indications that they will keep the option of military strikes on al-Qaeda bases open and will use any instrument at their disposal to deal with Osama-bin-laden and his allies. Even biological strikes can be used to thwart al-Qaeda in north-west of Pakistan.
Sharp remarks have come in the wake of the release of the report of US National Intelligence agency which says that Osama-bin–laden is alive and found safe shelter in the problematic tribal area, North Waziristan of Pakistan bordering Afghanistan. US Intelligence chief also blamed Musharraf government of letting the terrorists to consolidate themselves. US did not appreciate the peace accord between Pakistan government and pro-Taliban tribals.
Intelligence estimates say that islamist militant groups especially Al-Qaeda pose a persistent and evolving threat to US.
Such provocative statements from US have revoked strong reaction from Pakistan government as well as people.
Pakistan warned US of any such measures calling them ‘mistake’ and ‘disastrous’. Pakistan PM Shaukat Aziz said, “Any unilateral action by US would be ‘deeply resented’, ‘ill-conceived’, and ‘unacceptable’. Mr. Aziz said that Pakistan is capable enough to handle her responsibilities of security and integrity.
A professor of international relations from Pakistan questioned the credibility of US Intelligence reports.
Pak foreign minister Khursheed Kasuri reacting furiously to US reports said that he did not liked the tone he hears in American media. He asked US to share with Pakistan the superior intelligence if any, rather than directly going to targets.
With US-Pak getting into war of words US democrat has questioned Pakistan’s capability to deal with al-Qaeda.
On the one hand US blames Pakistan providing shelter for training and recruitment to Al-Qaeda militants. Pak thwarted US claims that Osama bin laden is in Pakistan.
White-House refusal to drop military option has furiated Pakistani government. They are against any kind of US incursion.
Intelligence agency chief has expressed concern that in view of recent political upheaval in Pakistan if Musharraf steps down the government then islamist violence and pro-democracy unrest prevailing in Pakistan will impact severely US efforts against terrorism.
Calling Pakistan tribal areas sanctuary of Al-Qaeda fighters, US is insistent on her option of military action. However, Pakistani sentiments are against any such move.
Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson, Taslim Aslam has indicated that any divergence on the issue of counter-terrorism would undermine their partnership in counter terrorism co-operation and would prove counter-productive.
|
|
Read More: North Goa
Comments:
