World Threats

There were many indications that the Pakistani military was going to enter South Waziristan following the offensive into Swat Valley. The Pakistanis, yet again, have chosen not to take on the Taliban and instead pursue talks, hoping to cause a rift by working with the “moderate” Taliban factions.

According to TIME’s report, the Pakistanis felt the offensive would be too difficult and could cause a tribal uprising. This decision will allow Hakimullah Mehsud, the new Pakistani Taliban leader following the assassination of Baitullah Mehsud by U.S. drones, to consolidate control over the militant forces.