US Drone Attacks in North Waziristan

Seventeen dead, targets were a house and a car; the aircraft fired four missiles.

U.S. drone attacks are continuing in North Waziristan, despite severe protests from Pakistan and international organizations. The target of yesterday’s drone attack is still unknown; nevertheless, 17 people died.

It appears that in America’s eyes Pakistan’s protests have no significance. The U.S. will continue its attacks when and where it wants. The brunt of this has to be borne by Pakistan, where the people are already in complete protest against the attacks, and where explosions and suicide attacks have become a frequent reaction. On one hand, the U.S. is talking to the Taliban about solving Afghanistan’s problem and is withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan; on the other hand it is continuing its series of drone attacks in Pakistan.

This American policy is proving extremely dangerous for Pakistan because the attacks are taking place in its territory, which is a violation of its boundaries. Furthermore, public rage, as well as terrorism, is increasing in reaction to the attacks.

Even international organizations have held these attacks as a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty. Several countries, including the U.K., fully support Pakistan’s stance. Therefore, the Pakistani government needs to formulate a clear policy against these attacks and, with the approval of parliament, take steps to counter them. It should place pressure on the U.S. to stop the attacks, especially as terrorism is being promoted as a result.

If the U.S. wants peace in Pakistan and a peaceful environment in Afghanistan for withdrawal of NATO forces, it will have to put an end to these attacks.