Foreword by Stan Lerner: This blog was written prior to Pakistan’s decision to reclaim the Swat Valley from the Taliban, which makes it a very interesting read — good perspective on Ben’s part.
Pakistan is arguably dealing with the largest problem it has faced in its 62 years history. In February, 2009, the Pakistani government agreed to allow sharia in the Swat Valley in exchange for a promise of no more further expansion by the Taliban into Pakistan. It is debated on whether Pakistan’s accession was more surrender than anything else. CNN’s Farheed Zarkaria claims “Pakistani military was making a virtue out of necessity.” But what is not debated is that not since 1971, when East Pakistan broke away to become Bangladesh, has Pakistan had its territorial sovereignty so out-rightly threatened. Today’s loss of the Swat, however, is a much graver a problem for Pakistan and the world. Continue reading Reclaiming the Swat
