More than 40 people were killed in a suicide bombing aimed at a military convoy in Pakistan's Swat Valley. This was the fourth militant attack in four days in the Swat valley. The militant attacks and the militants themselves are becoming an increased threat to the authority of the Pakistani state. This is because the militants continue to fight against Pakistani rule in the valley. The Pakistani army declared four months ago that it was done with major operations in the Swat Valley, but continued Taliban attacks show that that statement was gravely wrong. Pakistan has tried to police the valley by using civilian militias, known as lashkars, but these militias have seen mixed result, which is evident by the recent string of attacks. Even though the army has been able to weaken the Taliban in urban areas, it is still quite strong in rural areas, in which the army has been really unsuccessful. Pakistani officials are worried that the violence could spread from the Swat Valley and destabilize other parts of the country. It is important to note that these attacks are either the last gasp of a dieing organization, or continued work from a still vibrant organization which is just buying its time. I think that the Taliban is not out yet, but it buying its time. Hopefully Pakistani officials will also realize this and take the correct steps to stop the Taliban.
By: William Miller
Source: Christan Science Monitor
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