I have created a new topic solely on news from Pakistan because it seemed apparent to me that this was becoming a major focus of the Global War On Terror (GWOT). Seems I am not alone in this. Bill Rogglio posts on his belief Pakistan is not the prime battlefield in the GWOT:

The Battle of Talibanistan continues to rage. Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Agency regions of North and South Waziristan have become de facto Taliban and al-Qaeda strongholds, despite government attempts to establish control. Throughout the week a series of battles and skirmishes between Taliban and foreign “miscreants”, and Pakistani Army and paramilitary forces have occurred in Miranshah, the regional garrison in North Waziristan, and outlying towns and villages of Mir Ali, Norak and Datakhel.

…

The Pakistani government and military can no longer hide the rise of Talibanistan, and this has serious implications for the stabilization of Afghanistan and the reorganization and revitalization of al-Qaeda.

Which is basically what I have been saying for a while. All signs point to the fact the US and Pakistand understand the situation and are preparing to deal with it. President Bush’s trip and the visit by US Commanders is not simpy window dressing. And I have my doubts regarding all the sniping between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Any effort to cleanse the Taliban from the region will requires a pincer movement involving the two governments and support from US allies. India as well will need to help contain any possible escape routes through Kashmir.

Hat Tip to Jack Kelley at Irish Pennants.