Do we not know that the same terrorists who pose a threat to the US are actively focused on destroying the peaceful nation of Pakistan? Al Qaeda is responsible for 9/11, the killing of thousands of innocent civilians mostly Muslims-- and their TTP counterparts have murdered thousands of innocent people in Pakistan. Is now not the time for the US and Pakistan to accelerate their fight against the insurgency and bring justice to the families of thousands of innocent civilians who have been killed or maimed? US Senator John Kerry on Monday called Pakistan and the United States strategic partners with a common enemy as he sought to ease tensions in the wake of Osama bin Laden death. He also said, More importantly I explained that I am here with the backing of President (Barack) Obama, (US) ambassador (to Pakistan Cameron) Munter and their team to find a way to rebuild the trust between our two countries, and We must never lose sight of this essential fact. We are strategic partners with a common enemy in terrorism and extremism.
The war on terror has certainly brought on many challenges off the battlefield but that has certainly not stopped our enemy from continuing to prey upon innocent people. We just witnessed the killing of over 80 paramilitary officers in retaliation to UBLs death. TTP along with Al Qaeda continues to prove that they are more than willing to destroy our nations if given the opportunity. As our officials agreed, Both of our countries have sacrificed
so much that it just wouldnt make sense to see this relationship broken or abandoned.
Why is this question posed as a choice between Pakistans interests and those of the US? Is this not a false choice? And do you really believe that this is not Pakistans war, when these extremists have killed far more Pakistanis than Americans? Dont we agree; the sooner this menace is controlled the faster this world will come closer to peace? The aim of both nations is to eliminate insurgency for the sake of its citizens so stopping WOT and parting ways would only provide more breathing space and ability to further progress their evil motives.
CDR Bill Speaks,
DET, United States Central Command
U.S. Central Command