Secret U.S. unit trains commandos in Pakistan

By Josh Emberton

Pakistan, a nation possessing nuclear weapons, is in a very sensitive situation with how they choose to combat their weak control over their country. In class, we talked about the situation their government faces and what their ties with Washington may mean for them. On the one hand, becoming to close to Washington can cause problems and increased Anti-Americanism. While on the other hand, if the government does not use US help they could lose the country to militants.

This brings the focus onto the article which introduces a third potential complication for Pakistan. With increased tensions with India, the military is becoming more focused on their neighbors then with fighting Al Qaeda or the Taliban. The country does not want to *feel* like they are leaving any openings for their arch-foes India.

Despite the potential problem of Anti-Americanism, Pakistan and the US have been increasing their sharing of information capabilities. This has lead to better Predator strikes on militants, increased captures (including 5 high-ranking commanders), and preventing attacks on American unmanned aircraft flying in the same area. These are significant strides which the article claims are starting to show 'significant results.'

This is an important to the topic of global governance because of the previously mentioned status of Pakistan. They are a nuclear-armed country and any spark that could involve the use of the weapons would significantly impact the world. Furthermore, the success of these efforts in pakistan could weaken or strengthen the two main terrorist groups which would ultimately, effect the Middle East and the world in general.

It is important to note that this cooperation hasn't been completely positive. US strikes seem to encourage retaliation against the Pakistan Military as well as seemingly undermining their ability.