ISAS Briefs

Barely 18 months from its historic democratic elections of February 2008, Pakistan is mired in a war against domestic religious extremists. The country’s civilian political leadership and administration is still struggling to find its feet. Its relations with India have also deteriorated with the terrorist attacks in Mumbai by suspected Pakistan-based militants late last year. The increased Unites States military activity within Pakistani territory, especially its drone attacks against suspected Al-Qaeda bases, have added to the pressure on Pakistan’s government vis-à-vis its domestic constituency. Religious extremism poses a veritable threat to Pakistan from inside and out.