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US Weighs Direct Pakistan Strikes

But unilateral action could heighten tension between countries

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 23, 2008 1:21 PM CDT
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(Newser) – Frustrated with what some see as unproductive new leadership in Pakistan and fearing a strengthening al-Qaeda, Pentagon officials are considering a unilateral mission to root out militants hiding in the country, the Los Angeles Times reports. The CIA has backed such a move for months, but some officials remain concerned that a strike would shake Pakistan’s support for the US.

“We are truly conflicted,” said a US military official. While the desire to destroy al-Qaeda is strong, “do you do more long-term harm if you act very, very aggressively?” The US has proposed training Pakistani troops, but the country’s government has fought the idea amid lingering tensions. Pakistan says it is taking action against militants, but some US officials doubt it's fully able to do so.

Local residents and Pakistani security officials examine the site of suicide bombing in Charbagh, Pakistan, today.
Local residents and Pakistani security officials examine the site of suicide bombing in Charbagh, Pakistan, today.   (AP Photo/Sherin Zada)
Pakistani army troops keep position on an armored personnel vehicle as they patrol in Mingora, the main town of Pakistan's Swat Valley, Monday, Aug. 18, 2008.
Pakistani army troops keep position on an armored personnel vehicle as they patrol in Mingora, the main town of Pakistan's Swat Valley, Monday, Aug. 18, 2008.   (AP Photo/Sherin Zada)
Local residents look at a portion of a bridge damaged by Islamic militants near the main town in Pakistan's Swat Valley, Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008.
Local residents look at a portion of a bridge damaged by Islamic militants near the main town in Pakistan's Swat Valley, Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008.   (AP Photo/Sherin Zada)
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World • US

 
Pentagon • Pakistan • Pakistan People's Party • unilateralism • Pakistan militants • al-Qaeda • Pakistan military

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