Brookings: Topics - Pakistan

Afghanistan Victory Crucial for President Obama

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with IBA News, Bruce Riedel discusses President Barack Obama's policy in Afghanistan, emphasizing that victory against Al Qaeda and the Taliban is crucial not only for the stability of Afghanistan itself, but also for Pakistan and the entire Islamic world.

Pakistan's Punjab: Bruce Riedel on the New Jihadists

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Political violence in Pakistan is at its highest level in decades, with insurgent attacks on the rise and intensive government clashes with the Taliban in the country’s western provinces. In recent weeks in particular, attacks by Punjabi militant groups have increased dramatically. Bruce Riedel spoke with Newsweek's Andrew Bast and outlined this increasingly precarious situation in Pakistan as well as the prospects for future stability.

Pakistan: The Next Nuclear Nightmare?

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel says this weekend’s attack on the army headquarters in Rawalpindi, the military center of Pakistan, underscores the volatility and fragility in the world’s second largest Muslim country. Riedel argues that the United States must encourage Pakistan too keep moving against extremists while assuring them we will not abandon the fight in the region.

States of Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iraq remains between peace and war while the situation in Afghanistan still appears to be deteriorating, and Pakistan is doing better than Afghanistan but more progress is needed. Jason Campbell, Michael O'Hanlon and Jeremy Shapiro examine leading metrics from all three countries to assess how well the counterinsurgency and stabilization operations are faring.

The Afghanistan and Pakistan Indexes and Assessments of U.S. Policies in the Region

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 05, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Afghanistan and Pakistan have challenged President Obama since he took office, as questions persist about the success of U.S. policies in the region. On October 5, Brookings hosted the launch of a new Pakistan Index with a discussion on the state of the Afghanistan mission and the effort to address extremist activities in Pakistan.

Terrain, Tribes, and Terrorists: Pakistan, 2006-2008

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Leading counterinsurgency expert David Kilcullen argues that Pakistani security forces have performed inadequately against insurgents in the frontier with Afghanistan because poor governance and societal weaknesses have been exacerbated by decades of violence and lawlessness. Heavy-handed military tactics by the army have resulted in a perpetuation of violence, and have only further undermined local governance. A fundamental rethink of Pakistan’s political strategy is therefore necessary.

Afghanistan’s Election Matters as Much for the Country as for the World

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel writes that Afghanistan’s presidential election could provide a critical update on the progress of the war in that country. He argues the U.S. and NATO appear to have the upper hand given the Taliban's failure to have a major influence on the election, but says questions on the electoral process and regional impact still need to be answered.

Quality and Coordination of Official Development Aid in Pakistan

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan has historically received large volumes of aid but it has also faced an increasingly difficult task of aid coordination. Abdul Malik examines aid quality and discusses its implication for the coordination and effectiveness of aid.

Afghanistan Elections: President Obama's Afghan Test

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Seen as a test of the United States’ new strategy in Afghanistan and the Taliban's influence in the country, Bruce Riedel believes the stakes in the August 20 Afghanistan elections are higher than who will be elected president for the next five years. He writes that if the elections are successful, the NATO mission and Afghan government will get a boost of confidence and legitimacy that has been badly needed.

Pakistan's Madrassas: The Need for Internal Reform and the Role of International Assistance

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The rise of Islamic militancy in Pakistan during 2008 and 2009 and the resulting military operation in the Swat valley can be traced back to the inculcation of radical ideologies among the youth in the Frontier region, many of whom attended madrassas. Saleem Ali provides recommendations to the Pakistani government as well as to U.S. policy makers and the international donor community regarding madrassas in Pakistan.

The Next Terror Target

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the apparent death of Pakistani Taliban leader Baitullah Mehsud in a Predator drone strike, Bruce Riedel looks to the next target. Riedel says America and its allies must eliminate the far more dangerous and elusive Mullah Muhammad Omar because of his leading role in the Taliban’s resurgence in Afghanistan.

Successful Afghan Election Is Only Part of the Fight against the Taliban

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:19:35 GMT

Afghans voted on August 20 in the second presidential election since the Taliban were ousted by U.S.-led forces in late 2001. Despite a resurgent Taliban, Bruce Riedel says that victory in Afghanistan is attainable and that a clean election is absolutely critical to the legitimacy of the government.

The West Can Win in Afghanistan

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though there have been increased attacks, growing casualties and falling popular support, Michael Fullilove and Anthony Bubalo write that Afghanistan is still winnable. They believe the Obama administration has done well by increasing resources and refocusing on what can be achieved, and say there is too much at stake for the West to conclude Afghanistan is the graveyard of foreign armies and depart.

Armageddon in Islamabad

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel warns not to be fooled by some of the positive news from Pakistan, because the Taliban and their allies have gained significant power there recently. Riedel says we face the potential of a nuclear-armed state run by Islamic extremists, shows the devastating consequences of such and offers ideas to keep it from occurring.

Crisis in Pakistan: Educate Women and Girls for Long-term Solutions

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan’s humanitarian crisis brings a sharp focus on the need for long-term socio-economic development in the Northern region. In the Conflict Resolution and Prevention Forum, Rebecca Winthrop addressed the humanitarian crisis in Pakistan and called for further innovation and investment of education for girls and women.

Do Targeted Killings Work?

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

CIA Director Leon Panetta has cancelled a secret CIA plan to train anti-terrorist assassins, but Daniel Byman notes that strikes by U.S. military drones have had mixed success as a tactic for combating al Qaeda in Pakistan. Given the humanitarian and political risks, each strike needs to be carefully weighed. But equally important is the risk of not striking—and inadvertently allowing al Qaeda leaders free reign to plot terrorist mayhem.

Mastering Counterinsurgency: A Workshop Report

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In early May, the Pakistan army launched its biggest-ever counterinsurgency operation in Swat. Only two months earlier, the Brookings Institution, with support from the National Defense University and the Government of Pakistan, held a three-day workshop exploring American and Pakistani approaches to counterinsurgency and low intensity conflict. Stephen Cohen and Shuja Nawaz provide an overview of the topics discussed, in the context of the current situation in Pakistan.

Peace, Reconciliation, and Displacement

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Displacement is one of the tragic consequences of conflict. Elizabeth Ferris argues that once a conflict ends, resolving displacement and preventing future displacement is inextricably linked with achieving a lasting peace.

Are We Losing Afghanistan?

Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the United States launches a surge in Afghanistan and weariness grows among other nations, the Taliban and al-Qaeda smell victory in the second-longest war in American history. Bruce Riedel discusses what G8 leaders—and President Obama—must do at their summit this week to shift the momentum.

Protecting and Promoting Rights in Natural Disasters in South Asia

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

South Asia is a "theater for disaster." In the past decade alone floods, cyclones, earthquakes, droughts, and a devastating tsunami destroyed hundreds of thousands of lives and livelihoods and left millions more homeless. In each disaster, humanitarian responders rushed to the scene to preserve human life and reduce immediate suffering. However, many times, human rights protection has been a secondary concern. This new report, based on a regional meeting in Chennai, India, discusses the challenges in incorporating human rights into disaster response in South Asia.

Applying Counterinsurgency Principles in Pakistan’s Frontier

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A dictum of counterinsurgency theory is that no two insurgencies are exactly alike. The conflict underway in Pakistan’s northwest frontier, in many respects, bears little resemblance to the wars that have been fought by U.S.-led forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Joshua T. White takes the basic principles learned from the American counterinsurgency experience, and analyzes how each of those principles may be applicable to the frontier context, while also providing recommendations for first steps that can be taken by the Pakistani military, in conjunction with the U.S. government.

Trieste, Al Qaeda and the Stakes in Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As G8 foreign ministers meet in Italy prior to the G8 summit in July, Bruce Riedel comments on an interview in which an al Qaeda operative predicts the group will take over Afghanistan and Pakistan then use Pakistan's nuclear weapons against the United States. Riedel says the foreign ministers need to be clear and unequivocal that they will provide the resources needed to defeat al Qaeda and the Taliban to lessen the chance of a nuclear Armageddon.

Pakistani Displacement: Lessons Learned from Other Mass Displacement Situations

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Once again the newspaper headlines report a massive displacement crisis. This time the displaced are fleeing counter-insurgency campaigns in Pakistan. Though the situation of displacement in Pakistan will have its own unique circumstances, Ferris points out that there are some lessons learned from other displacement situations that may be applicable to planning an appropriate response.

Pakistan's Displaced Girls and Women—an Opportunity for Education

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since November 2008, the fighting between the Pakistan government and Taliban militants has displaced over two and a half million people. In the midst of this crisis, Rebecca Winthrop identifies a window of opportunity to improve the education situation of girls and women, one that will sow long-term benefits for the region’s recovery and development.

Pakistan is the New Epicenter of Terror

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ongoing fighting in Pakistan's SWAT Valley and a deadly suicide attack on a hotel in Peshawar are foreboding indicators about the prospects for suppression of jihadism and peaceful stabilization in Pakistan. Bruce Riedel examines the nature of the "existential threat" jihadist extremism poses to Pakistan and suggests a strategy for U.S. support.

Principles of Modern American Counterinsurgency: Evolution and Debate

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The United States has a long but convoluted history of counterinsurgency, or COIN. Janine Davidson outlines the American experience with insurgency, describes the basic principles of successful COIN operations, and provides a glossary of the often confusing and controversial terminology used by the U.S. military and government in the context of non-traditional military operations.

Afghanistan and Pakistan: A Status Report

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 08, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On June 8, the Brookings Institution hosted a discussion of the war-torn regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan, and offered status reports on both conflicts. Brookings senior fellow Michael O’Hanlon offered introductory remarks and moderated the discussion.

Pakistan and the Bomb

Sat, 30 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Battles between the Pakistani army, al Qaeda and the Taliban are the latest in a deadly struggle for nuclear-armed Pakistan. Bruce Riedel assesses the history of Pakistan's nuclear program as well as the danger of extremists gaining access to weapons should Pakistan fall into the wrong hands.

Weak States and Strong Troublemakers

Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vanda Felbab-Brown discussed the threats posed by strengthening drug cartels in Mexico, weakening central governments in Pakistan and Afghanistan, as well as transnational security threats to the U.S.

Comparing the U.S. and Soviet Experiences in Afghanistan

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A country rarely fights the same war twice in one generation, especially from opposite sides. Yet Bruce Riedel writes that in many ways describes the U.S. role in Afghanistan today. Pakistan’s role as a safe haven is remarkably consistent in both conflicts, but that similarity misses the fundamental differences between the two wars. Riedel addresses the differences, and assesses how Pakistan’s role is impacting the possibilities for success today.

Civilian Humanitarian Action Needed in Pakistan

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan's aggressive military campaign against the Taliban's growing threat has resulted in almost a million Pakistanis being displaced in the past two weeks—in addition to the 500,000 who were displaced last fall by fighting. Despite the turmoil, Beth Ferris says there is an opportunity to strengthen civilian government, build strong civil society organizations and support internally displaced people in a way that builds confidence in their government.

Pakistan: A Potential Jihadist State?

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel joined MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell to discuss the deteriorating security situation in Pakistan. Riedel argued that Pakistan is the most dangerous country in the world and that the United States must attempt to support the civilian government, because other options could be disastrous for the region and world.

Combating Al Qaeda: Strategies for the Future

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a speech to the International Peace Institute, Bruce Riedel said the situation in Pakistan is “dire and deteriorating,” while al Qaeda's core leadership is alive and remains a deadly threat. He also offered policy suggestions for U.S. policy toward Pakistan and Afghanistan as well as dealing with the issue of terrorism emanating from South Asia.

Rays of Hope in Pakistan, the World’s Powder Keg

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan—a country with nuclear weapons, extremist groups linked to al Qaeda and, in all likelihood, Osama bin Laden and Ayman Al- Zawahiri—concerns many throughout the world. However, Michael O'Hanlon finds reasons to be optimistic. He notes that the country is not a failed state, its leaders are getting serious about counterinsurgency and President Obama has made the region his utmost foreign policy priority.

Pakistan's Nuclear Weapons: Averting the Worst

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Pakistani military launched a new offensive against the Taliban in the country’s North-West Frontier Province, officials and former officials in Washington continued to discuss what the American response should be to the heightened conflict. Bruce Riedel offers his views on the situation.

Pakistan's "Existential Threat" Comes From Within

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, Bruce Riedel noted "the situation remains dire" in Pakistan. Riedel believes there is a real possibility of a jihadist state emerging in Pakistan and argues it is crucial for Congress to pass the five-year $7.5 billion economic aid package so that "we can send a signal to Pakistan that we're in this for the long haul and that it's not a conditions-based relationship."

The Scouting Report: Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 06 May 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 06, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

This Wednesday, President Obama met with the leaders of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Brookings expert Vanda Felbab-Brown and Politico Senior Editor John Ward Anderson took questions about the deepening crisis in those nations in the May 6 edition of the Scouting Report.

Pakistan's Nuclear Scenarios: The Risks with Bombing

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Migration-Displacement Nexus in Afghanistan

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Migration and displacement in and from Afghanistan are bewilderingly complex. One of the world's largest protracted refugee situations coincides with the largest repatriation in recent history. Returnees to Afghanistan cross paths with increasing numbers of cross-border migrants, traders, and new refugees moving in the opposite direction. Other returnees have become IDPs. Khalid Koser argues that as a result, Afghanistan's border regions illustrate a "migration-displacement nexus."

Afghanistan: What Is at Stake?

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Twice in the last 25 years the United States has squandered great victories achieved in Afghanistan by failing to follow up battlefield success with a commitment to helping build a stable government. Bruce Riedel analyzes these past victories and explains how the new administration can avoid replicating past mistakes that would have greater consequence today.

Pakistan and Afghanistan: Obama's Challenge, Obama's War

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 30, 2009, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

On April 30, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy hosted Bruce Riedel and Carlos Pascual to discuss President Barack Obama's newly introduced strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, which marked the conclusion of an extensive interagency policy review in which Riedel was chairman.

First 100 days: Grading Obama’s Foreign Policy

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Obama spends his 100th day in office, Michael O'Hanlon assesses the foreign policy maneuvers of the new U.S. administration. Partisan debates aside, O'Hanlon argues that Obama is off to a more solid start—in numerous regions of the world—than any of his recent predecessors.

Educational Reform in Pakistan’s Madrassahs: Does International Assistance Have a Role?

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 21, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On April 21, the Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World and the Brookings Doha Center was pleased to host a roundtable discussion with Saleem Ali on the challenges and opportunities facing the United States, the international community and Pakistan as they grapple with that country’s counter-terrorism and educational reform issues.

Rising India has a Pakistan Problem

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Cohen argues that though India is the dominant power in South Asia, it is the leader of the least-integrated region of the world. While India must concentrate on its domestic reforms it must also think about the role that outside powers can play.

Understanding the New Afghanistan Strategy

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following President Obama’s announcement regarding additional troops and a new approach to fighting insurgents in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Bruce Riedel spoke to Charlie rose to explain what changes are planned and why they need to be made.

Beyond Gloom and Doom in Pakistan

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saleem Ali argues that the dominance of a few thousand militants in a narrow valley being suggestive of a larger movement towards Talibanization of Pakistan is preposterous.

Grading Obama's Afghanistan Strategy

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While Michael O'Hanlon generally supports the new Afghanistan strategy set forth by the Obama administration, he feels it can still be improved and offers suggestions to do so.

Pakistan’s Madrassahs and Extremism: Is there a Connection?

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 18, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00:00 PM

On March 18, 2009, the Brookings Doha Center hosted a policy discussion related to a recently-published book by the first Brookings Doha Center Visiting Fellow Saleem H. Ali entitled Islam and Education: Conflict and Conformity in Pakistan. The discussion focused on Pakistani madrassahs and what links these Islamic educational institutions may or may not have to the rise of militancy in the region.

Pakistan: Reinventing the Islamic Republic

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saleem Ali argues that each Muslim country in the world has its unique ethno-religious identity and that Pakistan needs to craft its own rather than trying to cast itself into the mold of some illusory allegiance.

China: Trumping Human Rights

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saleem Ali writes that China is a great nation from which the U.S., and indeed Pakistan, have much to learn. However, as friends we must engage in a relationship that builds on our common humanity.

The Way Forward in Afghanistan

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Shapiro spoke with Spiegel Online about how to move forward in Afghanistan and why a troop surge may not be the answer.

Pakistan: Dream Deferred or Denied?

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 25, 2009, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

On February 25, the Brookings Institution, in collaboration with six other think tanks, will host two panel discussions on the present and future of Pakistan, bringing together some of the leading Pakistan experts in Washington.

Displacement in the Muslim World

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Throughout the Muslim world, millions of people have been forced to flee their homes and communities for many reasons, including both conflicts and natural disasters. This massive displacement of people affects both national development plans and individual human development, affecting relationships between countries, UN Security Council discussions, and peace processes. In short, as Hady Amr and Elizabeth Ferris argue, understanding—and resolving—displacement is central to development, peace, and security.

The Current Situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel says new special envoy Richard Holbrooke inherits a "dim and dismal" situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan. What is needed, he says, is for Holbrooke to reverse the negative momentum in both countries.

The Limits of U.S. Diplomacy in Kashmir

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan has once again received international attention following November’s terrorist attacks in Mumbai, and there are reports that the Obama administration plans to appoint a special envoy for the region. However, as Dhruva Jaishankar and Anit Mukherjee explain, renewed U.S. engagement on Kashmir—especially if it were led by a high-profile envoy—is likely to prove counterproductive, a setback for U.S. foreign policy, for the India-Pakistan peace process and, ironically, for Kashmir itself.

Predicting Proliferation: The History of the Future of Nuclear Weapons

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Over the past six decades, concerns about nuclear proliferation have shifted from the Cold War paradigm to that of the new millennium—nuclear threats from non-state actors, terrorist organizations and the developing world. Moeed Yusuf, a former Brookings guest scholar, reviews attempts by intelligence communities and independent experts to predict the future of nuclear landscape since the beginning of the Cold War. What can current policy-makers learn from past predictions as they seek to generate policies addressing future proliferation trends?

Playing for Keeps in Afghanistan

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What happens when the world's best counterinsurgency force meets a witch's brew of terrorists, multiple insurgencies and hardened narco-traffickers deep in the interior of Eurasia? In Afghanistan in 2009, Michael O'Hanlon says we are about to find out, with huge consequences for that country and the region, as well as American security.

Memo to President-elect Obama: Heeding the Mumbai Wake-up Call

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Growing tensions between India and Pakistan, two nuclear-armed countries, threaten to escalate into a direct military confrontation. Vanda Felbab-Brown notes that, especially after the Mumbai attacks, the world is looking to Obama for leadership in reversing dangerous trends and building a security framework in a vital region.

Expand the Agenda in Pakistan and Afghanistan

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 18, 2008, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Seven years after the 9/11 attacks, the border region between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains the front line in the war on terror. On December 18, Brookings Fellow Vanda Felbab-Brown offered a public memo to President-elect Obama with recommendations to expand an agenda of peace and stability to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The Scouting Report: Expand the Agenda in Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 17, 2008, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Seven years after the 9/11 attacks, the border region between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains the front line in the war on terror. Pakistan is suffering from its greatest internal crises in decades, while Afghanistan remains far from stable with a resurgent Taliban. On December 17, Vanda Felbab-Brown answered questions in a live web chat with Politico about foreign policy challenges President-elect Barack Obama faces in this volatile region.

Myths from Mumbai

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a new op-ed article, Arvind Panagariya discusses myths related to the recent Mumbai attacks, and identifies current issues regarding terrorism and the relationship of India and Pakistan that must be addressed.

What We Fear Most about the Mumbai Attacks

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bilal Saab writes that discovering who planned and executed the Mumbai attacks is critical to any effective future counterterrorism strategy. He believes if subsequent investigations show that al Qaeda played no role, it signals the beginning of a dangerous new era in which multiple terrorist groups possess the operational capacity to mount large-scale, catastrophic attacks—previously thought to be the domain of al Qaeda alone.

India's Materialist Middle Class Needs to Wake Up

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Navtej Dhillon writes that in the aftermath of the recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai, public confidence in the Indian political system is at an all time low. With the growing realization that economic growth alone cannot preserve the country’s stability, can the Indian middle class pave the way for a new politics that addresses the age-old conflict with Pakistan?

Mumbai Terrorist Attacks: A Challenge for India and the World

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 03, 2008, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Brookings hosted a discussion on the Mumbai attacks that focused on the extremist networks allegedly responsible for the assaults, the increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, how India and the U.S. should respond to the crisis and the repercussions for the broader region and the NATO mission in Afghanistan in particular.

The Mumbai Terrorists' Other Target

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Benjamin says Mumbai will stand as the most consequential terrorist attack since 9/11. He argues the strategic implications could be devastating, because it could further destabilize Pakistan and accelerate that failing state's collapse into a failed one.

Terrorism in India and the Global Jihad

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The attacks on multiple targets in downtown Mumbai in late November is only the latest in a long series of horrific terrorist operations in India. Brookings senior fellow Bruce Riedel examines the complex phenomenon of terrorism in India and its connections to the global jihad.

The Implications of the Mumbai Attacks for Afghanistan

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings fellow Vanda Felbab-Brown writes that the bloody terrorist attacks in Mumbai have serious repercussions for NATO efforts to stabilize Afghanistan and defeat the Taliban insurgency. Among other recommendations, Felbab-Brown believes the U.S. and NATO must discourage Afghanistan's political leaders from exploiting regional tensions.

Indian Forces Fight to Regain Control of Mumbai

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Cohen joined PBS's NewsHour to discuss the terrorist attacks on Mumbai. Cohen offered clues into who may be behind the attacks, what the reaction from the Indian government could be, and he noted possible effects for the broader region.

How to Win In Afghanistan

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The war in Afghanistan is not going well, but that does not mean the U.S. should give up. Michael O'Hanlon argues it is imperative that the U.S. help the Afghanistan government recruit, vet, train, and equip 300,000 to 400,000 new Afghan troops.

Pakistan: The Critical Battlefield

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the global struggle against terrorism, Pakistan poses paradoxes and enigmas. Bruce Riedel believes understanding these issues—and developing a strategy to deal with them—may constitute the single most important foreign policy challenge facing the United States.

The Surprising Absence of an October Surprise

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Terrorism analysts repeatedly warned that al-Qaeda might strike in the days leading up to the election, but November 4th came and went without incident. Daniel Byman explains why the U.S. did not witness any acts of terrorism in the run-up to this years election.

Prospects of Youth Radicalization in Pakistan

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Moeed Yusuf analyzes Pakistan's high potential for youth radicalization. He writes that the situation is marked by a poor education system stratified along socio-economic lines and disparate economic opportunities across segments of society, and he offers several policy suggestions for addressing the problem.

How to Fight Al Qaeda Now

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel joined Newsweek to discuss the continuing threat from Al Qaeda, their successes and failures, and options for fighting the organization now and in the future.

Why Do Terrorists Love To Strike Around Elections?

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Benjamin analyzes the trend for jihadists to act in the run-up to or months following an election. Benjamin argues that organizations like al-Qaeda want to leave their fingerprints on big historical events, because they want to be seen as a central player in determining the outcome.

The Search for Al Qaeda

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 20, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy held a policy luncheon with Bruce Riedel, Senior Fellow at the Saban Center, to discuss his new book, The Search for Al Qaeda. Wendy Chamberlin, President of the Middle East Institute, offered insights on Riedel’s book. Martin Indyk, Saban Center Director, chaired the discussion.

In the U.S., Even Those Against the Nuclear Deal Like India

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview in Delhi around the time the Indo-U.S. nuclear deal cleared its last hurdles in the U.S. Congress and was signed into law by President George Bush last week, Stephen Cohen dwells on the Indo-U.S. nuclear deal, the China context around the deal, and how precarious he thinks the Pakistani democracy is.

Descent into Chaos: The U.S. and the Afghanistan-Pakistan Border

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 07, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The Brookings Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World was pleased to host Ahmed Rashid, journalist and best-selling author of Descent Into Chaos. A correspondent for both the Far Eastern Economic Review and the Daily Telegraph and author of Taliban and Jihad, Rashid argued that Afghanistan presents a greater security risk to the international community than the Middle East.

From Losing To Winning In Afghanistan

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With renewed international focus on Afghanistan, Michael O'Hanlon and Andrew Shearer assess the continually worsening situation in the country. O'Hanlon and Shearer believe there is no "silver bullet" strategy for Afghanistan, but they contend that progress can best be accomplished by focusing on four main fronts for positive developments.

The Next Chapter: The United States and Pakistan

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The bilateral Pakistan Policy Working Group, of which Brookings Senior Fellow Stephen Cohen is a member, issued a new report on the U.S.-Pakistan relationship moving forward. The report recommends commissioning a new National Intelligence Estimate upon which to base U.S. policy. It also advocates greater economic aid, public diplomacy, market access and assistance with counterinsurgency, assuming Pakistan can deliver results against extremism in the tribal areas and adequately oversee its intelligence services.

What the Candidates Said During the Foreign Policy Debate

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Post asked a group of foreign affairs analysts and other experts for their take on what the candidates should discuss in the first presidential debate. Following the debate, these experts discussed what was actually said. Brookings Senior Fellows Stephen Cohen and Michael O'Hanlon offered their thoughts.

The Debate on Foreign Policy We Want to Hear

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Post asked a group of foreign affairs analysts and other experts for their take on what the candidates should discuss in the first presidential debate. Brookings Senior Fellows Stephen Cohen and Michael O'Hanlon offered their thoughts.

A Pakistani Response to the Marriott Attack

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Following the terrorist attack on the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, Stephen Cohen assesses Pakistan’s options for confronting militant Islamists. Cohen argues that international invention is necessary for Pakistan and its new leadership to establish internal security and regain control over its frontier regions.

How 9/11 is Connected to December 13

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel writes that the December 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament is connected to the September 11 attacks on the United States. As tensions between India and Pakistan mounted following the December attack, Riedel notes that large numbers of Pakistani forces were sent to the Indian border, which then allowed al-Qaeda members to move more freely in the western border regions while seeking safe haven.

Terrorist Safe Havens in Pakistan

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel joined the Philadephia Inquirer's Trudy Rubin to discuss terrorism related to Pakistan and what the United States should do in the region.

Pakistan: Foreign Policy Past Its Expiration Date

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel reviews The Duel, by Tariq Ali. Riedel concludes that the author is correct in noting that the U.S. should back Pakistan's civilian leadership, even if it is somewhat flawed, because we cannot afford Pakistan to become a failed state governed by terrorists.

Pakistan: Asif Zardari's Moment, And America's

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel writes that the election of Asif Zardari as president of Pakistan creates an opportunity for the U.S. to rethink its policy toward that nation and the surrounding region. Riedel argues that Zardari may be Pakistan’s last best hope to build a free and stable country and that, given those circumstances, the United States should offer the new Pakistani government both increased economic aid and other means of support during the period of political transition.

Musharraf’s Departure Is Good for Pakistan but Is It Too Late?

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With the resignation of Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, Brookings South Asia expert Bruce Riedel explores the former Pakistani leader's role as a U.S. ally in the fight against Al Qaeda and other extremists. Riedel examines the future of Pakistan without Musharraf at the helm.

Global Turmoil: Pakistan, Russia, Georgia and Iran

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

How can the interconnection of Pakistan, Russia, Georgia and Iran affect the United States? Brookings President Strobe Talbott, Ted Koppell and Neal Conan discussed this question on NPR's Talk of the Nation.

U.S. Foreign Policy in South Asia

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Cohen joined Geo Television to discuss U.S.-Pakistan relations in terms of cooperation against terrorism, the possible difficulties for transition of power after Musharraf, and Pakistan-India relations regarding nuclear energy as well as other regional issues.

Terrorism: Rogue Operators

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Think that state sponsors of terror are pulling all the strings? Think again. Daniel Byman details how countries like Iran and Syria may play a big role in the terrorism underworld, but they’re quickly losing control over rogues that bite the hands that once fed them.

Al-Qaida at 20: Is the Movement Destined To Fail?

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman notes that while al-Qaeda remains powerful, "it faces challenges on almost every front." From being denounced by once-friendly preachers to the serious setbacks for al-Qaeda in Iraq, the terror organization finds itself struggling to reach the goals it once believed were close at hand.

Al-Qaida at 20: From Obscurity to Infamy

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman assesses the "bloody successes" of al-Qaeda, from their inception through the present day. Byman argues that much of the credit should go to Osama Bin Laden for his leaderhip skills and also to the group's ability to transform itself to fit changing political and security environments.

Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

August 06, 2008, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

Brookings hosted foreign policy experts Michael O’Hanlon, Kenneth Pollack, Bruce Riedel and Jeremy Shapiro for a discussion on the state of Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as U.S. efforts to partner with Pakistan in confronting al Qaeda.

Pakistan's Second Last Chance

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Cohen writes that the recent election in Pakistan is a turning point for the country because it demonstrates the state is not faced with an immediate Islamist takeover or civil war. And while democratic forces are resurgent, Cohen believes internal and external powers must conquer several critical challenges to use this second "last chance" to get things right.

Opportunities and Challenges in Pakistan’s Foreign Policy

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 11, 2008, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

As Pakistan emerges from tumultuous national elections and continues to address tensions on its western frontier, the nation faces several domestic and foreign policy challenges—and opportunities—in the months ahead. On July 11, the Brookings Institution hosted Shah Mahmood Qureshi, the foreign minister of Pakistan, for a discussion of Pakistan’s foreign policy.

Pakistan and Terror: The Eye of the Storm

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel notes that Pakistan almost uniquely is both a major victim of terrorism and a major sponsor of terrorism. It has been the scene of horrific terrorist acts it has been one of the most prolific state sponsors of terror. Riedel believes there is no issue or country more critical to get right under the next U.S. president, which means developing a policy that will move Pakistan away from being a hotbed of terror.

Displacement and Security in Afghanistan

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 23, 2008, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

The resurgence of the Taliban in Afghanistan has complicated the displacement crisis in the country, as fighting continues to displace both new groups and IDP and refugee returnees. The Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement hosted a breakfast with Ewan McLeod, the Deputy Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Afghanistan to discuss the displacement sitaution for both IDPs in Afghanistan and refugees who have fled elsewhere.

Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman submitted recommendations to the Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism for improving the United States government’s ability to conceptualize, organize for, and counter the threat of terrorists acquiring and using WMD.

The U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Relationship and Nuclear Safety/Security

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Cohen testified before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs to highlight four major challenges Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities present to United States policy toward the country and region. He noted that both short and long term measures must be taken to stabilize Pakistan domestically in order to keep the prospect of total state failure, and the numerous problems associated with such, at bay.

The Kashmir Dispute: Making Borders Irrelevant

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 04, 2008, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On June 4, the Brookings Institution and the United States Institute of Peace hosted scholars P.R. Chari and Hasan Askari Rizvi in a discussion about their upcoming study “Making Borders Irrelevant in Kashmir.” The study examines the opportunities and obstacles for increasing trade and movement across the Line of Control, the constituencies that would favor or oppose this approach, and the steps necessary to move the process forward.