M.B. Naqvi

KARACHI – As the crisis around Iran over its alleged nuclear ambitions assumes an ugly shape, Pakistan finds itself once again under enormous political pressure because of aggressive United States policy toward a Muslim country in its immediate neighborhood. Already, the Pakistan government is under fire from powerful Islamist groups and political parties for supporting … Continue reading “Pakistan Stressed by US Designs on Iran”

KARACHI – Missile strikes carried out by the United States on Damadola village near the Afghan border that killed 18 people may fuel religious fanaticism in this country and seriously complicate President George W. Bush’s war on terror, say moderate political leaders and security analysts. "Political realities in Pakistan need to be better be understood … Continue reading “Pakistanis: US Missile Strikes Will Affect War on Terror”

KARACHI – After Islamists defied an order by Pakistan President Gen. Pervez Musharraf to expel foreigners enrolled in the madrasas (religious schools) by Dec 31, questions have been raised on the country’s future role in the United States-led "war on terror." Revelations that the madrasas had a link to the Jul.7 bombings in London compelled … Continue reading “Both Hare and Hound in ‘War on Terror’”

KARACHI – Spiraling conflict between the Pakistan army and Islamist militants along the Afghan border, straddled by pro-Taliban, Pashtun tribes, has led security analysts to talk of a full-fledged insurgency that poses a graver threat to the country than admitted by authorities. "Frequent, bloody gunbattles, heavy casualties, ambushes, attacks on military outposts, and killing of … Continue reading “Pakistan Hit by Islamist Backlash”

KARACHI – Prominent citizens in this country are calling for a deeper understanding of the complex situation that led to the July 7 London bombings as British police confirmed that three of the bombers were of Pakistani descent and probably trained here or in neighboring Afghanistan. Noted political commentator and author A.R. Siddiqui said he … Continue reading “Pakistan Analysts Link London Blasts to Afghanistan”

KARACHI – Alarm and dismay have been the general reaction in Pakistan to news of a framework agreement on defense cooperation signed between India, its long-standing rival in South Asia and the United States – which, only a year ago, accorded this country the status of "major non-NATO ally." Many said the agreement signed late … Continue reading “Pakistan Alarmed by Indo-US Defense Deal”

NEW DELHI – India’s External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh arrives in Islamabad on Tuesday with a firm agenda to restore ties with an estranged Pakistan. This will be the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to the neighboring country in 15 years. In an exclusive interview with IPS, Singh indicated that his visit would … Continue reading “India Ready for Closer Ties With Pakistan”

KARACHI – For no clear reason, the atmosphere around the resumption of the long-delayed India-Pakistan peace dialogue is marked by effusive official optimism on either side, and an aura of hope and expectation among both peoples. The two governments, whose foreign ministers met Wednesday and set a September date for more substantial discussions, have by … Continue reading “India, Pakistan Optimistic About Peace Talks”

KARACHI – For no clear reason, the atmosphere around the resumption of the long-delayed India-Pakistan peace dialogue is marked by effusive official optimism on either side, and an aura of hope and expectation among both peoples. The two governments, whose foreign ministers met Wednesday and set a September date for more substantial discussions, have by … Continue reading “India, Pakistan Optimistic About Peace Talks”

KARACHI – Although the trial of Saddam Hussein in Baghdad is gripping theatre, attention should not shift from matters of fundamental importance. Basic questions remain about the longer-term prospects for post-Saddam Iraq, and these ought not to remain out of focus. Insofar as the United States could transfer power in and over Iraq, it did … Continue reading “More to Iraq’s Future Than Saddam’s Fate”