US Airstrikes Signal Tough Approach in Pakistan

By Harry Kimball, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 24, 2009 12:58 PM CST

(Newser) – US airstrikes on suspected terrorist camps in Pakistan yesterday signal that the Obama administration will continue the aggressive US strategy against extremists in the region, the Washington Post reports. In fact, early signs suggest a tougher approach—and less patience—with the Pakistani government. The attacks, carried out by Predator drones based across the border in Afghanistan, killed at least 20 people, with one "high-value" target thought to be among the dead.

The strikes are the first to occur under Obama's watch and follow the Bush military blueprint. But Obama’s policy differs in that he has pledged a big increase in non-military aid to Pakistan, a move that could soften populist opposition to the occasional airstrike. At the same time, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told the Senate that the US would cut aid to Pakistan's military—long a cornerstone of the two nations' relations—unless real progress is made against militants.

Pakistani protesters rally in favor Barack Obama in Hyderabad, Pakistan. (AP Photo)

A Predator drone. (AP Photo)

An unmanned aerial vehicle's Predator Hellfire missile is shown on a simulator's virtual camera. (AP Photo)

President Barack Obama speaks about Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Middle East. (AP Photo)

Pakistani Shiite Muslims burn representations of Israeli and U.S. flags. (AP Photo)

Pakistani army 130mm artillery guns fire towards militant positions in the Bajur tribal region on the border with Afghanistan. (AP Photo)

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Officials say that's the number he's settled on for 2011

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Afghanistan • CIA • Pakistan • US military • Predator • airstrike • tribal areas • President Obama • terrorist camp

MOST POPULAR STORIES

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Obama Offers Pakistan Prez 'Condolences' After Strike

Stops short of issuing formal apology

Obama Won't Apologize for Pakistan Strike

Balks against State Dept., says US has apologized enough

Once Burned, Afghans Fear Repeat of 1989

Troop withdrawal could lead to instability, some fear

Obama to Pull 10K Troops From Afghanistan

Officials say that's the number he's settled on for 2011

Pentagon: Wait Til Fall 2012 to End Afghanistan Surge

Military pushes for slow withdrawal as Obama weighs next move

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