Islamabad, Pakistan (CNN) -- Pakistan has issued a strongly-worded statement condemning a deadly, suspected U.S. drone strike in the country's tribal region."Drone attacks have become a core irritant in the counter-terror campaign," a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday. "We have repeatedly said that such attacks are counter productive and only contribute to strengthen the hands of the terrorists." Pakistan's Foreign Secretary has lodged a strong protest with the U.S. Ambassador, according to the statement, and the government has "taken up the matter with the U.S. at all levels."
The political message sent by these attacks is more damaging than the military collateral. Just like the post-release of Raymond Davis, a drone happens to strike directly after a sensitive incident. A drone strike less than 24 hours after Davis's release, and now a strike just after the new request from Islamabad, are political messages that send a message of omnipotence. Pakistan's government has been able to absorb civilian casualties, but it cannot publicly tolerate Washington's disrespect.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely agree, James. But how can Washington not understand that in their own right? The arrogance is breathtaking and heavily laced with a large dose of old-fashioned stupidity in my opinion.
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