The Last Option: Who Can Use Weapons of Mass Destructions?

By Sajjad Shaukat

With the acceleration of the different war between the sovereign and non-sovereign entities, dangers are looming that by availing the vicious phenomena of global terrorism, any entity can use Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) inside the US and Europe or any western country to obtain its selfish interests. This is the area of very sensitive nature. Therefore, we need caution to reach the conclusion. But, we should keep in mind that despite having collective aims, some countries are playing double game against one another.

Since the 9/11 tragedy, while waging global war on terror, the US-led western high officials and their media have been propagating in the world that Pakistan-based Islamic militants can use WMDs or ‘dirty nuclear bombs’ inside the US and Europe. And a plot in this respect would be prepared in Pakistan’s tribal areas. In this context, in connivance with Israeli secret agency, Mossad, Indian secret agency, RAW intensified its propaganda campaign against Pakistan. But, Islamabad took a temporary relief of sigh, because now, almost every plot regarding terrorism is attributed to Syria where illegitimate interests of Israel are at risk.  

It is notable that Indian nuclear weapons and their related-material are unprotected, as various cases of smuggling and theft have verified.

In July 1998, India's Central Bureau of Investigation seized eight kg. of nuclear material from Arun, an engineer in Chennai, including two other engineers. It was reported that the uranium was stolen from an atomic research center. On November 7, 2000, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) indicated that Indian police had seized 57 pounds of uranium and arrested two men for illicit trafficking of radioactive material. IAEA said that Indian civil nuclear facilities were vulnerable to thefts. On January 26, 2003, CNN disclosed that Indian company, NEC Engineers Private Ltd. shipped 10 consignments to Iraq, containing highly sensitive equipment including titanium vessels and centrifugal pumps. Indian investigators acknowledged that the company falsified customs documents to get its shipments out of India.

On June 12, 2004, Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation, an American company was fined US $ 300,000 for exporting a nuclear component to the Bhaba Atomic Research Center in India.
In December 2005, United States imposed sanctions on two Indian firms for selling missile goods and chemical arms material to a Muslim country in violation of India's commitment to prevent proliferation. In the same year, Indian scientists, Dr. Surendar and Y S R Prasad had been blacklisted by the US due to their involvement in nuclear theft. In December, 2006, a container packed with radioactive material had been stolen from an Indian fortified research atomic facility near Mumbai.

However, in collaboration with the officials, proliferation of nuclear components and their related-material has continued from time to time by the Indians.

Surprisingly, despite nuclear proliferation by India in violation of various international agreements and its refusal to sign Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and Additional Protocol with the IAEA, Washington signed a pact of nuclear civil technology with New Delhi.

As regards Israel, many authors, writers, officials, doctors, experts and reports have proved with evidence that from the very beginning Israel have not only stockpiled the WMDs, but used them on various occasions.

Israeli military historian Urin Milstein and author Yeruham Cohen write, “In May 1948 the Zionist gangs besieged the well-fortified Palestinian city of Acre...to enter the city, the Zionist gangs injected typhoid in the aqueduct. Many Palestinians and some 55 British soldiers, who were in the city, got infected...the ICRC delegate Mr. De Meuron, sent a series of reports...describing the conditions of the city population as struck by a sudden typhoid epidemic...the infection was water borne...the Zionist crimes did not stop then, but targeted Egypt and Syria, using inhumane weapons.”

In his paper, published in the Non-Proliferation Review in autumn of 2001, Avner Cohen pointed out, “Israel’s chemical weapon started with David Ben Gurion’s doctrine...the destruction of the Palestinian society in Palestine...to accomplish this...Ben Gurion wrote a letter to Ehud Avriel; a member in the Jewish Agency in Europe, ordering him to recruit European Jewish scientists...experts in microbiology...were recruited to form the Science Corps in the Haganah which later was called HEMED BEIT....publically known as Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR)...was developing chemical and biological weapons in secret...when in 1992, El Al Flight 1862 crashed....on its way to Tel Aviv...in Dutch history killing at least 47 and destroying the health of 3000 Dutch residents....plane was carrying a shipment from Sokatronic Chemicals of Morrisville, Pennsylvania to IIBR, under the US Department of Commerce license, in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)...140 biological weapon scientists from the IIBR have strong links” with various related-research centers of the US and  some European countries.    

During various phases of the Palestinian Intifada, Israel used these fatal weapons against the unarmed Palestinians. In this respect, a number of investigative reports, after lab-verification, have indicated severe convulsions, the burning sensation, the difficulty to breathe, the vomiting and pain found in relation to the victims—mostly women and children.

In March 2003, BBC presented the documentary, investigating Tel Aviv’s development of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons.

In 2006, during the war against Lebanon, Israel used banned chemical weapons like phosphorous bombs in Lebanon and Gaza, which killed 286 Palestinians and injured 4,200, In this regard, an Italian television documentary programme (Channel, RAI News 24) have revealed that in the 2006 war, Israel employed dense inert metal missiles, which are highly carcinogenic. The documentary elaborated that the doctors observed, “Dozens of victims had completely burned bodies and shrapnel type injuries that X-ray machines had been unable to detect.”

In this connection, American leading media suppressed the real details of the 2009 United Nations (UN) fact-finding report which disclosed as to how Israel’s military used chemical weapons against Palestinians.

In 2013, the US Secretary of State John Kerry accused Syrian President Bashar al-Assad of using chemical weapons in relation to the Syrian civil war. In order to protect the interests of Israel, in the pretext, America was determined to attack Syria like the invasion of Iraq where no weapons of mass destructions were discovered. But, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned western powers against any airstrike. For face-saving, John Kerry withdrew from American stand, as he could not prove it. In fact, CIA-Mossad-supported rebels which have been fighting to oust President Assad’s government had used chemical weapons in Syria.

In fact, brushing aside the dangers, covertly, America and its related-industries which are mostly under the control of Zionist Jews have supplied Tel Aviv WMDs. Concealing these fatal weapons, Israel has flatly refused to sign the NPT, and to ratify the CWC which obligates states to submit to international oversight and destroy chemical agents in their possession. While in 2013, Damascus ratified the CWC.

As regards Israeli nuclear arsenal, it contains variety of atomic bombs. It also possesses small nuclear weapons.  

In 1983, the former Israeli prime minister, Ariel Sharon suggested  India to  join with Israel to attack Pakistani nuclear facilities, and in 1982 he called for expanding Israel’s security influence from Mauritania to Afghanistan.

Since 9/11, by availing that golden opportunity, both India and Israel have perennially been manipulating the world phenomena of terrorism and anti-Muslim approach of the US-led west so as to obtain their secret designs. Both Tel Aviv and New Delhi have been equating the ‘wars of liberation’ in Palestine and Kashmir with terrorism, and under the cover, accelerated state terrorism on these controlled territories. Their main purpose is to divert the attention of the west from their own atrocities, while employing delaying tactics in the solution of these issues.

With the support of their lobbies and in connivance with the US neoconservatives, India and Israel have been exaggerating the threat of Islamophobia.

However, Tel Aviv and New Delhi have been acting upon a secret diplomacy in targeting the whole Islamic World in general and Pakistan, China, Iran, Libya and Syria in particular. In this respect, by manipulating President Barack Obama’s ambivalent strategy, both India and Israel have also been propagating that a ‘nuclearized’ Pakistan, having close ties with China is sponsoring cross-border terrorism in Afghanistan and Kashmir. And Iran and Syria are doing the same act in Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Israel. Particularly, New Delhi considers Pakistan as its enemy number one. America and Israel are also against Pakistan, as it is the only nuclear country in the Muslim world.

Nevertheless, similarity of interests has brought Israel and India to follow a common secret strategy with the help of those Americans who are present in the US Administration. In this context, Indian RAW, Israeli Mossad and some American CIA agents are in collusion at the cost of the US global and regional interests.

It is mentionable that ideology of Hindu nationalism prevails in every field at the cost of other minority groups. It is even supported by Indian defence forces secretly. This could be judged from the incident, when on April 6, 2008 in a house of the fundamentalist outfit Bajrang Dal in Nanded, a bomb went off. The investigation proved that the militants were found in bomb-making. Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of the Maharashtra arrested a serving Lt. Col. Srikant Purohit along with other army officials, indicating that they were helping in training the Hindu terrorists, providing them with the military-grade explosive RDX, used in terrorist attacks in various Indian cities. ATS further disclosed that Lt. Col. Purohit confessed that in 2007, he was involved in bombing of Samjhota express (Train between Pakistan and India in which a majority of Pakistanis travel), which burnt alive 70 Pakistanis.

It is noteworthy that in one of his tapes, LT. Col Purohit said, “One of our own captain had visited Israel”, and demanded “continuous supply of arms, training, an office with a saffron flag in Tel Aviv, political asylum and support for our cause of a Hindu Nation in the UN.” The Israelis, he added, gave “a very positive response.”

Regarding Hindu terrorism, Indian Home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde disclosed on January 20, 2013 that organised training camps run by the fundamentalist parties, RSS and BJP (Ruling party of India) were promoting Hindu Terrorism. He also explained that these extremist parties were behind the Samjhauta Express, Meccca Masjid and Malegaon blasts.

Since the leader of the ruling party BJP Narendra Modi became Prime Minister of India, various developments like unprecedented rise of Hindu extremism, persecution of minorities, creation of war-like situation with Pakistan etc. clearly show that encouraged by the fundamentalist rulers, Hindu extremist parties such as BJP, RSS VHP, Bajrang Dal and Shiv Sena have been promoting religious and ethnic chauvinism in India. Especially, assaults on Christians and Muslims including their places of warships and property have been intensified by the fanatic Hindu mobs.

It is of particular attention that on January 7, 2015, two Islamic militants attacked the office of French satirical weekly newspaper Charlie Hebdo in Paris, and killed 13 people on January 9, 2015. Two brothers namely Said and Cherif Kouachi suspected for the incident were killed in a shootout with Police—in a hostage-taking situation. Thus, the gunmen killed total 17 persons. Afterwards, Mossad connections with Charlie Hebdo incident had been exposed by many senior analysts and social media bloggers, as the Zionist groups and Mossad used the episode to punish France on recognizing Palestinian state and to desist other EU countries to avoid such approach on Palestinians.  

Similarly, on July 22, 2011, the twin terror-attacks in Oslo, Norway, killed 80 persons. The Norwegian man Anders Behring Breivik, a right-wing fundamentalist Christian, who admitted these attacks was obsessed with what he saw as the Muslim immigration—left behind a detailed online manifesto, calling for a Christian war to defend Europe against the threat of Muslim domination. In this context, Kevin Barrett disclosed on October 14, 2015 through Veterans Today, “The official story claims that Anders Breivik acted alone…but survivors of the massacre on Utoya Island, which annihilated the anti-Zionist leadership of the youth wing of the Norwegian Labor Party, reported there were multiple gunmen…as in dozens of other false flag terror operations. The purpose was to punish Norway and its Labor Party for two policy breaches: Refusing to join NATO’s war on Libya, and moving toward a full boycott of Israel.”

In his message, Breivik also favoured the ‘Hindu nationalism (Hindutva)—the anti-Muslim movement of the Hindu fanatic parties.

Although these lethal poisons (WMDs) seem to be mysterious, yet still could be within the reach of some Hindu terrorists with the help of RAW which could also got these destructive weapons from Mossad. Such chemical and radiological materials could have also been smuggled inside India by the Hindu fundamentalists with the covert backing of RAW. 

Frustrated in isolating Islamabad, RAW in connivance with Mossad might have prepare a most dangerous plan to use chemical, biological and nuclear weapons inside the US homeland or any major European country to implicate Pakistan for having allegedly used these weapons through some Taliban militants. Particularly, RAW-Mossad may also employ these fatal weapons against NATO forces in Afghanistan, as India and Israel want to prolong the stay of the US-led NATO troops in Afghanistan which have become the center of their covert activities against Pakistan, China and Iran. ISIS (Daesh) terrorists which are strategic assets of the CIA may be used by RAW and Mossad for employment of these unconventional weapons. While, India, Israel and the US are also playing double game against one another, hence, by utilizing the vicious circle of terrorism, New Delhi can alone use these weapons through Afghanistan-based Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) which have been supported by India, and has claimed responsibility for several terror attacks inside Pakistan, including the recent one at Charsadda’s university.

RAW’s sole aim will be to provoke Americans and its allies against Pakistan which is threatening Indian hegemony in the region. Thus, Indian RAW could create a dangerous misunderstanding in which US could use small nuclear weapons against Pakistan. Otherwise, Islamabad could be asked to rollback its atomic programme.

Meanwhile, various developments such as Russian airstrikes on the ISIS targets in the northern Syria, its coalition with Iran, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon-based Hezbollah in support of President Assad, exposure of the US-Israeli assistance to the terrorists of the ISIS and Al-Qaeda (Al-Nusra Front) to oust the Syrian president, reluctance of Europe and the NATO countries to  join America against Russia in relation to Syrian war, acceptance of Syrian refugees by the European countries, especially Germany, the EU rule to boycott goods produced in Israeli settlements on the West Bank etc. culminated in terror attacks in Paris on November 13, 2015 as  part of the Zionist-Israeli conspiracy against the Muslims, Christians and loyal Americans—the west and particularly Europe. In this respect, arrest of Israeli Col. Shahak in Iraq, his admission, proving links of Al-Qaeda and ISIS with America and Mossad and medical treatment of the ISIS warriors in the Israeli hospitals proved that Mossad was behind the Paris attacks.

In the post-Paris attacks, by producing anti-Muslim phenomena like the propaganda of the so-called threat of Islamophobia, persecution of the Muslims in the US, Europe and some other western countries, Israel has succeeded in its designs. Israel-led America also got the assistance of its western allies (NATO) against Russia. Now, as part of the ambivalent approach, American jet fighters and those of its western coalition are targeting the ISIS terrorists in Iraq and Syria. Although Tel Aviv has succeeded in its clandestine aims after the Paris attacks, yet some recent developments have depressed the Zionists and Israelis. The Russia-led coalition which have been successfully achieving its objectives have broken the backbone of the ISIS terrorists, Al-Qaeda’s Al-Nusra Front and the rebels who have fled most of the areas in Syria and Iraq. Besides, though President Obama is acting upon contradictory policy, but, in wake of the presidential election-campaign, ordinary Americans are focusing on internal problems which are the result of prolonged war on terror. Patriot Americans are openly criticizing the Zionist-protected policies of the US. Taking cognizance, Obama has asked Turkey to withdraw its forces from Iraq’s territories. In the recent past, John Kerry gave ultimatum to the Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to agree for the two-state solution of the Palestinian dispute.  

Most significantly, on January 17, this year, US-led western sanctions against Tehran have been officially lifted in accordance with the agreement, signed between six world powers and Iran, last year, whom Israeli prime minister has called a ‘historical blunder.’ In these circumstances, Tel Aviv may think that perhaps America is playing double game with Israel.

Notably, the Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom’s statement, hours after the Paris attacks caused a stir in Jerusalem, as she said that “to counteract the radicalization, we must go back to the situation in the Middle East of which not the least the Palestinians see that there is no future: we must either accept a desperate situation or resort to violence.”

At present, a debate has started between the Zionists and non-Zionist Jews for the two-state solution of the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Even, a majority of the western intellectuals have also been emphasizing upon the settlement of this dispute. Very soon, Tel Aviv will have no other option. Therefore, to avoid the solution of this old crisis, as the last option, most probably, Mossad with the help of Zionist Jews can supply weapons of mass destructions to the ISIS terrorists, and to use them inside the US and Europe or any major western country with the aim of implicating Syria—and to cause a major war between Russia and the US-led NATO, while turning the world to clash of civilizations, especially between the Muslim and the Christian worlds.   

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic_pak@hotmail.com

Courtesy: Veterans Today

Time to take the war on terror to where it belongs

BY SOHAIL PARWAZ

The attack on Bacha Khan University was exactly like the way APS Peshawar was attacked in December 2014. Nevertheless, the similarities are too many, like the time as both the institutions were attacked in the early morning; both the sacred institutions are situated in the KPK province of Pakistan; a large number of innocent students were killed in both the gory carnages; the terrorists selected the foggy months of winter in both the attacks; for both the events the Indian intelligence agency RAW was sturdily doubted right away; however, the attackers in both the cases had last minute contact with their handlers in Afghanistan. With such amazing resemblance in both the events and with innumerable parallels, the objective of our enemy has surfaced as quite obvious and alarming: ruin the future and take the nation back into Stone Age.

On Wednesday, January 20, 2016, a group of unidentified gunmen entered Bacha Khan University in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Charsadda town and opened fire on students and faculty members as they gathered at the University for a poetry recital (mushahira) to commemorate the death anniversary of a progressive activist Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan aka Bacha Khan whom the university is named after. Currently about 3,000 students are enrolled in this institution. The armed assailants scaled university walls and in first go targeted the boys’ hostel where they opened fire on the students who were resting in their rooms. The bullets showers took 21 lives while more than 60 people were severely injured.

The reports from different quarters and agencies confirmed that the terrorists were eight to 10 in number who penetrated the university, aging between 18 and 25 years old, wearing civilian clothes and had their faces covered. The four attackers were wearing suicide vests but were neutralised by security forces’ snipers before they could detonate their explosives. There were reports about three of them that they were holing up in a single storey house in the neighbourhood from where they were commanding this bloody showdown. Out of the lot, four were confirmed as killed while the fate of the others remained unconfirmed.

Before it is analysed who was behind this attack and what was the purpose, it’s interesting and worth mentioning here that on one hand, the mastermind of the APS Peshawar attack, Umar Mansoor, of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ‘Geedard (Jackal) Group’ has claimed the attack through a post on his Facebook page; however, a spokesperson from the TTP, Mohammad Khorasani, issued a disagreeing statement shortly after Mansoor’s claim, in which Khorasani condemned the attack, terming it against “Shariah”.

Khorasani also warned that those using the name of TTP will be brought to justice.

Unfortunately, if a question “Will Pakistan see more such attacks on the educational institutions?” is asked, the answer to it will be yes since the terrorists have two advantages: firstly, they go for the soft targets; and secondly, they do more damage as the future of the nation is shattered and ruined. The terrorist attacks on didactic institutions around the world have otherwise risen to frightening levels, higher than any point in more than 40 years. It’s a global trend that is increasing at a rapid rate. Looking exclusively at Pakistan, the rate at which attacks increased in the run-up to the Army Public School bloodbath was disturbing. Hence, with a heavy heart one has to admit the happening of any such attack in future. Most of the attacks prior to APS were not that deadly, both the frequency and the damage they caused were on an unparalleled level. Pakistan, as a country, has the highest number of attacks i.e., 850 on places of learning and also the highest number of people killed i.e., 450 in school attacks. Russia follows behind with 361 killed.

What has happened so far in the country and is likely to (God forbid) happen in the coming days or month has to be seen in the light of the Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parriker’s recent naked threat given to Pakistan in a public function, soon after the attack on Pathankot where he said while mincing his words that, “Our enemy will only realise the pain when he will be hit where it hurts him. We will revert to any mean to harm our enemy, even if it is terrorism even.” It’s a well known fact that our enemy never hesitates in going to any extent to harm Pakistan and history vouches for it. Few months ago Indian premier Modi visited Bangladesh where he openly confessed about India’s role in separating East Pakistan and he was presented the picture about the signing of instrument of surrender.

Although our Foreign Office said that ‘It is premature to draw any conclusion as to who may be behind the Charsada University attack before investigations are complete’, Pakistan army’s chief spokesperson said that ‘The attackers were in touch with a number from Afghanistan and the SIMs used in the phones were of Afghan origin’. Interestingly, a mobile phone recovered from one of the attackers was receiving calls even after he had been killed.

There are two vital issues: first, why is the government reluctant to implement the National Action Plan (NAP)? After all, the Plan was designed and drafted soon after the APS massacre as a result of marathon sessions of epic committee. It looks as if the government, judiciary and the army is not on the same page. The LEAs apprehend the culprits after a great effort while the courts let them off them after a couple of hearings. On the other hand, the fate of the proposed military courts is not very clear. The army is more than willing to set up the courts and has extended a sincere cooperating hand; however, on the government side, some unknown fear is preventing the ruling elite from implementing the decision. This attitude has not only encouraged our enemies but the wave of violence and terrorism has also reverted which is certainly not a good sign.

The other and most worrying issue is related to the Prime Minister’s behaviour vis-à-vis his Indian counterpart. The attitude of a government head towards a specific leader or head of the state, usually, is commensurate to the relations between the two states. The very cool and cordial relation between the heads of the governments of two daggers drawn states is unprecedented. Now here in case of Pakistan and India, it has happened many a time that despite Modi’s hostile and aggressive statements, Mian Nawaz Sharif always displayed warmth and friendly behaviour which is certainly mind gobbling.

Few months ago Mian Nawaz Sharif visited India. The entourage was inclined towards the family more than the officials. Even in India the meetings were more of personal nature and corporate oriented. The sensitive issues like Kashmir and Baglihar Dam were relegated and meetings with the Indian ‘Iron Man’ Jandal were given preference. The exchange of gifts and hosting of luncheons and dinners projected it as a meeting of two brothers who were lost in “Kumbh Mela”. It was later confirmed when out of nowhere Modi landed at Lahore airport and was escorted straight to Jati Umrah as a personal guest of Mian Sahib where he attended a marriage and flew back to Delhi after a few hours stay in Pakistan. All the analysts, diplomats, politicians and media were absolutely surprised. It was beyond anyone’s comprehension that when the Indian ruling elite was blaming and bashing Pakistan, when Pakistan and its armed forces and ISI was bashed for even an insignificant happening in India, then what makes Mian Nawaz Sharif to behave like Mother Teresa?

Honestly speaking, the series of terrorist activities inside and anywhere in Pakistan compels a common Pakistani to ask the prime minister as to whether he is on our side or on enemy’s. Will he give preference to the country’s or his own family’s business interests? It’s not solely the army’s obligation to fight against terrorism and at the end of the day earn bad name and criticism. The officers and soldiers of the army have laid more lives in this war on terror than the total number of the martyrs of three wars against India. Certainly, the sacrifices don’t deserve this sort of reward.

The fact is that time is rapidly running out and so are the affairs getting out of control. The desperate enemy has nothing to lose. What else one can expect from a person who puts his life at stake? The only answer is, throw our personal interests on the backseat and the State’s business be given the first choice. It’s time to implement the NAP in letter and spirit. Every Pakistani has a valid right to ask the prime minister what is more important to him: Pakistan or something else? The nation can’t afford losing more innocent lives and the future of beloved motherland. They expect the rulers to take the war to the terrorists, out of Pakistan. It’s high time for the decision makers to decide before it is too late.

War on Terror and Politics in Pakistan

By Prof Dr. Muhammad Hafeez

Reportedly, a bill is being tabled by a PPP Senator in the Senate of Pakistan to constrain the legal/constitutional status of the ISI (Inter-services Intelligence Agency). Such attempts had failed in the past and Pakistani public must understand the intricacies of such moves/intentions particularly in the context of ongoing war on terror.

War on terror is a “war of hearts and minds” as said by former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. In other words, it is a psycho-social war to transform the attitudes, minds, and social values of people across nations. In such a war, intelligence agencies have become increasingly important; and the ISI is no exception. It has a very important role to safeguards the interests of Pakistan in short, medium, and long terms.

The ISI is a well-respected organization and has been ranked first among the top ten secret agencies of the world in the recent past. The American CIA has been rated number two in the hierarchy of important agencies of the world. The question arises why has the Pakistani agency been the top agency of the world?

On November 8, 2012, the then CIA Chief, General David Petreaus resigned apparently on account of a sex scandal with his mistress Paula Broadwell. She was promoted to the rank of a Lt Colonel in American army at that time; and has written a book on Gen Petreaus (All In: The Education of General David Petreaus).

Due to the alleged sex scandal and her role about divulging sensitive information, her promotion in the army was stalled. She is presently living with her family in Charlotte, NC, USA and is trying to reconcile with her scandalous past.

While resigning, General Petreaus said that that he was married for 37 years and held a responsible position; and on account of that he had decided to resign from his position as the Chief of CIA. While reading this explanation by the General in 2012, I was surprised as such sexual matters remain a sort of social norm in American society.

On January 6, 2015, New York Times reported that Feds recommended charges against General Petreaus. While learning this development, it occurred to me that his resignation alluded to something deeper than just a sex scandal; and I thought there must be something serious behind the indictment. The development of the story suggested that the indictment of General Petreaus might have links with covert operations in Afghanistan and Pakistan. These findings indicated the complexities of the War on Terror and we must be careful to make comments on the work of different security agencies in Pakistan.

Accordingly, the Senate of Pakistan is advised that it should recognize the importance of security institutions in local, national, and international perspectives in the frame of continuing war on terror. The Senators and members of parliament should understand global and regional connections with Pakistan’s survival and growth strategies/priorities. The political parties and relevant individuals should move away from party/personal interests and promote the confidence of Pakistan’s security apparatus.

To conclude, we must gain confidence as a nation and in its bright future as we have survived through a long war on terror since the events of 9/11. We know that several countries including Libya, Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan have been destroyed while Pakistan did not suffer that much. We should be proud of Pakistani nation and its armed forces, particularly the ISI (the eyes and ears of Pakistani armed forces). We are fighting this complex war on terror and I am certain that a prosperous future of this nation is around the corner. Long live Pakistan.

We Don’t Need No Education?

By: Sohail Parwaz

The attack on Bacha Khan University was exactly like the way APS Peshawar was attacked in December 2014. Nevertheless, the similarities are too many, like the time, as both the institutions were attacked in the early morning, both the sacred institutions are situated in the KPK province of Pakistan, a large number of innocent students were killed in both the gory carnages, the terrorists selected the foggy months of winter in both the attacks, for both the events the Indian intelligence agency RAW was sturdily doubted right away, however, the attackers in both the cases had last minute contact with their handlers in Afghanistan. With such amazing resemblance in both the events and with innumerable parallels, the objective of our enemy has surfaced as quite obvious and alarming; ruin the future and take the nation back into Stone Age.

On Wednesday, January 20, 2016, a group of unidentified gunmen entered Bacha Khan University in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’sCharsadda town and opened fire on students and faculty members as they gathered at the University for a Poetry Recital (Mushahira) to commemorate the death anniversary of a progressive activist Khan Abdul Ghaffar Kan aka Bacha Khan whom the university is named after. Currently about 3000 students are enrolled in this institution. The armed assailants scaled university walls and in first go, targeted the boys’ hostel where they opened fire on the students who were resting in their rooms. The bullets showers took 21 lives while more than 60 people were severely injured.

The reports from different quarters and agencies confirmed that the terrorists were eight to 10 in number who penetrated the university, aging between 18 and 25 years old, wearing civilian clothes and had their faces covered. The four attackers were wearing suicide vests but were neutralized by security forces’ snipers before they could detonate their explosives. There were reports about three of them that they were holing up in a single storey house in the neighborhood from where they were commanding this bloody showdown. Out of the lot, four were confirmed as killed while the fate of the others remained unconfirmed.

Before it is analyzed that who was behind this attack and what was the purpose, it’s interesting and worth mentioning here that on one hand, the mastermind of the APS Peshawar attack, Umar Mansoor, of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ‘Geedard (Jackal) Group’ has claimed the attack through a post on his Facebook page, however, a spokesperson from the TTP, Mohammad Khorasani, issued a disagreeing statement shortly after Mansoor’s claim, in which Khorasani condemned the attack, terming it against “Shariah”. Khorasani also warned that those using the name of TTP will be brought to justice.

Unfortunately if a question is asked that, “Will Pakistan see more such attacks on the educational institutions?” The answer to it is, forlornly yes, since the terrorists have two advantages; firstly, they go for the soft targets and secondly, they do more damage as the future of the nation is shattered and ruined. The terrorist attacks on didactic institutions around the world have otherwise risen to frightening levels; higher than any point in more than 40 years. It’s a global trend that is increasing at a rapidly growing rate. Looking exclusively at Pakistan, the rate at which attacks increased in the run-up to the Army Public School bloodbath was disturbing. Hence, with a heavy heart one has to admit the happening of any such attack in future. Most of the attacks prior to APS were not that deadly, both the frequency and the damage they caused were on an unparalleled rise. Pakistan, as a country, has the highest number of attacks i.e. 850 on places of learning and also the highest number of people killed i.e. 450 in school attacks. Russia follows behind with 361 killed.

What all has happened so far, happening in the country and is likely to (God forbid) happen in the coming days or month has to be seen in the light of the Indian defence minister Manohar Parriker’s recent naked threat given to Pakistan in a public function, soon after the attack on Pathankot where he said while mincing his words that, “Our enemy will only realise the pain when he will be hit where it hurts him. We will revert to any mean to harm our enemy, may it be terrorism even”. It’s a well known fact that our enemy never hesitates in going to any extent to harm Pakistan and history vouches for it. Few months ago Indian premier Modi visited Bangladesh where he openly confessed about India’s role in separating East Pakistan and he was presented the picture about the signing of instrument of surrender. Although our Foreign Office said that, “It is premature to draw any conclusion as to who may be behind the Charsada university attack before investigations are complete,” however, Pak army’s chief spokesperson said that “The attackers were in touch with a number from Afghanistan and the SIMs used in the phones, were of Afghan origin”. Interestingly, a mobile phone recovered from one of the attackers was receiving calls even after he had been killed.

There are two vital issues; first that why the government is reluctant to implement the National Action Plan (NAP)? After all, theplan was designed and drafted soon after the APS massacre, as a result of marathon sessions of epic committee? It looks as if the government, judiciary and the army is not on the same page. The LEAs apprehend the culprits after a great effort, while the courts leave them after a couple of hearings. On the other hand the fate of the proposed military courts is not very clear. The army is more than willing to set up the courts and has extended a sincere cooperating hand, however on the government side; some unknown fear is preventing the ruling elite from implementing the decision. This attitude has not only encouraged our enemies but the wave of violence and terrorism has also reverted which is certainly not a good sign.

The other and most worrying issue is related to the Prime Minister’s behaviour vis-à-vis his Indian counterpart. The attitude of a government head towards a specific leader or head of the state, usually, commensurate to the relations between the two states. The very cool and cordial relation between the heads of the governments of two daggers drawn states is unprecedented. Now here in case of Pakistan and India, it has happened many a times that despite Modi’s hostile and aggressive statements, Mian Nawaz Sharif always displayed warmth and friendly behaviour which is certainly mind gobbling.

Few months ago Mian Nawaz Sharif visited India. The entourage was inclined towards the family more than the officials. Even in India the meetings were more of personal nature and corporate oriented. The sensitive issues like Kashmir and Baglihar Dam were relegated and meetings with the Indian ‘Iron Man’ Jandal were given preference. The exchange of gifts and hosting of luncheons and dinners projected it as a meeting of two brothers who were lost in ‘Kum Mela”. It was later confirmed few weeks ago when out of nowhere, Modi landed at Lahore airport and escorted straight to Jati Umrah as a personal guest of Mian Sahib, where he attended a marriage and flew back to Delhi after a few hours stay in Pakistan. All the analysts, diplomats, politicians and media were absolutely bamboozled with jaw-dropped. It was beyond anyone’s comprehension that when the Indian ruling elite is blaming and bashing Pakistan every now and then, when Pakistan and its armed forces and ISI is bashed for even an insignificant happening in India then what makes Mian Nawaz Sharif to behave like Mother Teresa?

Honestly speaking the series of terrorist activities inside and anywhere in Pakistan compels a common Pakistani to ask the prime minister that whether he is on our side or on enemy’s? Will he give preference to the country’s or his own family’s business interests? It’s not solely the army’s obligation to fight against terrorism and at the end of the day earn bad name and criticism. The officers and soldiers of the army have laid more lives in this war on terror than the total number of the martyrs of three wars against India. Certainly the sacrifices don’t deserve this sort of reward.

The fact is that time is rapidly running out and so are the affairs getting out of control. The desperate enemy has nothing to lose. What else one can expect from a person who puts his life at stake? The only answer is, throw our personal interests on the backseat and the State’s business be given the first choice. It’s time to implement the NAP in letter and spirit. Every Pakistani has a valid right to ask the prime minister that what is more important to him; Pakistan or something else? The nation can’t afford losing more innocent lives and the future of beloved motherland. They expect the rulers to take the war to the terrorists, out of Pakistan. It’s high time for the decision makers to decide before it is too late.

India’s Republic Day is Black Day for Kashmiris

By Sajjad Shaukat

When every year, on January 26, is being celebrated by India as the Republic Day, Kahmiris on both side of the Line of Control (LoC) and all over the world, including their Pakistani brethren commemorate it as the Black Day in protest against Indian illegal occupation of Kashmir, while, the issue is still alive due to continued struggle of the Kashmiri people.

On January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress proclaimed the declaration of Independence. Hence this very day was selected as the Republic Day. Although Indian constitution declares India to be a secular and democratic state, yet its subsequent regimes have broken all the records by continuing undemocratic injustices in relation to the Kashmiris.

During the partition of the Sub-continent, the people of the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) which comprised Muslim majority decided to join Pakistan according to the British-led formula. But, Dogra Raja, Sir Hari Singh, a Hindu who was ruling over the State of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), in connivance with the Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Governor General Lord Mountbatten joined India.

The design to forcibly wrest Kashmir began to unfold on August 16, 1947, with the announcement of the Radcliffe Boundary Award. It gave the Gurdaspur District—a majority Muslim area to India to provide a land route to the Indian armed forces to move into Kashmir. There was a rebellion in the state forces, which revolted against the Maharaja and were joined by Pathan tribesmen. Lord Mountbatten ordered armed forces to land in Srinagar.

When Pakistan responded militarily against the Indian aggression, on December 31, 1947, India made an appeal to the UN Security Council to intervene and a ceasefire ultimately came into effect on January 01, 1949, following UN resolutions calling for a plebiscite in Kashmir to enable the people of Jammu and Kashmir to determine whether they wish to join Pakistan or India. On February 5, 1964, India backed out of its promise of holding plebiscite. Instead, in March 1965, the Indian Parliament passed a bill, declaring Kashmir a province of India-an integral part of the Indian union.

The very tragedy of Kashmiris had started after 1947 when they were denied their genuine right of self-determination. They organized themselves against the injustices of India and launched a war of liberation which New Delhi tried to crush through various forms of brutalities.

It is notable that since 1947, in order to maintain its illegal control, India has continued its repressive regime in the Occupied Kashmir through various machinations. 

Nevertheless, various forms of state terrorism have been part of a deliberate campaign by the Indian army and paramilitary forces against Muslim Kashmiris, especially since 1989. It has been manifested in brutal tactics like crackdowns, curfews, illegal detentions, massacre, targeted killings, sieges, burning the houses, torture, disappearances, rape, breaking the legs, molestation of Muslim women and killing of persons through fake encounter.

According to a report on human rights violations in the Indian Occupied Kashmir, since 1989, there have been deaths of 1,00000 innocent Kashmiris, 7,023 custodial killings, 1,22,771 arrests, 1,05,996 destruction of houses or buildings, 22,776 women widowed, 1,07,466 children orphaned and 10,086 women gang-raped/molested. Indian brutal securities forces have continue these atrocities. 

In fact, Indian forces have employed various draconian laws like the Jammu and Kashmir Disturbed Areas Act, and the Armed Forces (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Powers Act and Public Safety Act in killing the Kashmiri people, and for the arbitrarily arrest of any individual for an indefinite period. 

Besides Human Rights Watch, in its various reports, Amnesty International has also pointed out grave human rights violations in the Indian controlled Kashmir, indicating, “The Muslim majority population in the Kashmir Valley suffers from the repressive tactics of the security forces. 

In its report on July 2, 2015, the Amnesty International has highlighted extrajudicial killings of the innocent persons at the hands of Indian security forces in the Indian Held Kashmir. The report points out, “Tens of thousands of security forces are deployed in Indian-administered Kashmir…the Armed Forces Special Powers Act allows troops to shoot to kill suspected militants or arrest them without a warrant…not a single member of the armed forces has been tried in a civilian court for violating human rights in Kashmir…this lack of accountability has in turn facilitated other serious abuses…India has martyred one 100,000 people. More than 8,000 disappeared (while) in the custody of army and state police.”

In this respect, European Union has passed a resolution about human rights abuses committed by Indian forces in the Indian held Kashmir.

It is of particular attention that in 2008, a rights group reported unmarked graves in 55 villages across the northern regions of the Indian-held Kashmir. Then researchers and other groups reported finding thousands of mass graves without markers. In this respect, in August, 2011, Indian Jammu and Kashmir State Human Rights Commission officially acknowledged in its report that innocent civilians killed in the two-decade conflict have been buried in unmarked graves. 

Notably, foreign sources and human rights organisations have revealed that unnamed graves include those innocent persons, killed by the Indian military and paramilitary troops in the fake encounters including those who were tortured to death by the Indian secret agency RAW.

Indian authorities are not willing to talk with Kashmiri people on political grounds. New Delhi reached to a conclusion that only bullet is the right way of dealing with Kashmiris, demanding their right of self-determination. Surprisingly, Indian successive governments are trying to ignore the dynamics of the freedom movement of Kashmiris for the sake of their alien rule. 

But, New Delhi is still showing its intransigence in order to resolve Kashmir dispute with Pakistan by neglecting the fact that Kashmir remains a nuclear flashpoint between both the neighbouring countries. 

In this context, Egbert Jahn in his book, “Kashmir: Flashpoint for a Nuclear War or Even a Third World War?” has pointed out, “The Kashmir conflict is embedded in the wider conflict over the incomplete creation of nations and states on the Indian subcontinent, which during the east-west conflict even threatened at times to escalate into a nuclear world war between Pakistan and the USA on the one side and India and the USSR on the other. Until now, there have been three wars between India and Pakistan over the Jammu and Kashmir: in 1947–49, 1965 and 1999… finally, the Indo-Chinese border war of 1962…after these wars…and could unexpectedly again lead to a regional and under certain circumstances…even a major nuclear war or a Third World War.”

Meanwhile, like the previous year, Pakistan’s recent serious and sincere effort at the annual session of the United Nations—the speech of Pakistan’s prime minister and his meeting with the American president, highlighting the Kashmir dispute and demanding its solution has infused a new spirit among the Kashmiri people. 

Nonetheless, by exposing the myth of Indian claim of the largest democracy and double standard of the US-led western countries which still remain silent over the Indian injustices, Kashmiris, living both sides of the LoC observe “Black Day” on January 26 to protest against the Indian illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir. On this very day, Pakistanis and Kashmiris across the globe express solidarity with the freedom fighters of Kashmir, demanding their legitimate right of self-determination from India which continues various forms of state terrorism in order to suppress their popular movement.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Designs behind Attack at Charsadda’s University

By Sajjad Shaukat

On January, 20, this year, at least 21 persons, including students, a faculty member and security guards were killed at Bacha Khan University in Khyber Pakhtunkha’s Charsadda town, when heavily-armed terrorists of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) entered the university and opened fire on them. It was due to the quick response of Pakistan’s security forces, including Special Services Group (SSG) personnel of the army which killed the four attackers and cleared the premises of the university by securing the civilians inside.

On the same day, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif reached Charsadda to boost the morale of the security personnel who took part in the operation. He appreciated timely response by the security forces, and also expressed deep grief over the loss of lives.

The mastermind of the Army Public School (APS) Peshawar attack, Umar Mansoor of the TTP Geedar group claimed the attack at the university through a post on his Facebook page, adding that four attackers were sent to the university.

Head of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lt. Gen. Asim Bajwa revealed, “The investigations show that Charsadda terror attack was being controlled from a location in Afghanistan through Afghan cellphone by a TTP operative.”

He also said that Gen. Raheel Sharif called Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah and top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan Gen John Campbell to inform them about the evidence which has emerged from investigations into the university assault, pointing towards Afghanistan-based terrorists of the TTP, controlling it.

Reliable sources disclosed that Indian consulate located in Jalalabad, Afghanistan played a key role in targeting the Bacha Khan University. In this regard, the operatives of the Indian secret agency, RAW in connivance with Rahmatullah Nabil, the former director of Afghan intelligence agency, National Directorate of Security (NDS) and the TTP chief Mullah Fazlullah planned this assault. Indian consulate gave rupees 3 million to the Talban commander to arrange this brutal act at the university.

However, this terror attack cannot be seen in isolation, as it is part of the Indian nefarious designs not only against Pakistan, but also against other regional and global powers. While some powers like the US are also playing double game with Pakistan and China which are also behind these designs.

It is notable that in January 13, 2016, at least seven personal of the Afghan security forces died during the suicide attack which targeted the Pakistani consulate in Jalalabad. Islamic State group (ISIS or Daesh) claimed responsibility for the terror attack.

The assault which coincided with efforts to restart the stalled peace process with Taliban insurgents and ease diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, added a dangerous new element to Afghanistan's volatile security mix. In this respect, delegates from Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and the United States had met this to try to resurrect efforts to end nearly 15 years of bloodshed in Afghanistan.

It is mentionable that on December 9, 2015, the Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process Conference was held in Islamabad in which high-level representatives of supporting regional and international organizations from over 30 countries including especially the US, China and Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj participated.

The participants realized the importance of the conference as an important regional platform aimed at a stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan which was not only in its own interest, but also vital to peace, stability and prosperity of the ‘Heart of Asia’ region as a whole—it was collective responsibility to help Afghanistan in combating the challenges it faced.

In the joint declaration, the participants reaffirmed the respect for each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and reiterated their commitment to refrain from the threat or use of force against each other and reaffirmed the objectives, aimed at promoting regional peace and prosperity and enhanced cooperation for countering security threats collectively.

And a series of meetings were held in Islamabad between Pakistan, Afghanistan, China and the US to develop an understanding of the earliest possible resumption of stalled talks between the Afghan government and Taliban. A trilateral meeting was also held among Pakistan, Afghanistan and the America. Besides, President Ashraf Ghani, Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj also met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Sushma said that India and Pakistan have decided to restart composite dialogue to address all issues including Kashmir.

President Ghani vowed to work together to eliminate the common threat of terrorism, which Pakistan and Afghanistan are facing, and emphasized on the need to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.

In this respect, in the recent past, cordial relations were established between Pakistan and Afghanistan when Afghan President Ghani had realized that Afghanistan and Pakistan were facing similar challenges of terrorism and would combat this threat collectively.

While, it is misfortune that on direction of New Delhi and like the former regime of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Afghanistan’s present rulers have also started accusing Pakistan of cross-border terrorism. In this context, after hours of the Taliban captured Kunduz city, on September 28, 2015, during his address to the UNO General Assembly, Afghanistan’s chief executive Abdullah Abdullah blamed Islamabad for carrying out cross-border attacks and destabilizing Afghanistan.

Differences exist between chief executive Abdullah Abdullah and President Ashraf Ghani, as the former wants cordial relations with New Delhi at the cost of Afghanistan and the latter prefers Islamabad, because Pak-Afghan stability is interrelated.

It is noteworthy that on December 10, President Ghani accepted the resignation of Rahmatullah Nabil as director of the Afghan intelligence agency, NDS, after developing differences of the spymaster with him over Ghani’s move to attend the regional conference in Islamabad. In his statement, Nabil said President Ghani had asked him to relinquish charge of the NDS.

Besides, Prime Minister Sharif and President Ghani also showed their determination that their countries would cooperate in fighting the threat of ISIS.  

As the US is playing double game with Pakistan, because it is the only nuclear country in the Islamic World, which irritates America and Israel. Hence, secret agents of American CIA, Israeli Mossad and Indian RAW which are well-penetrated in the TTP and ISIS are making efforts to weaken Tibetan regions of China, Iran and Pakistan, especially Pakistan’s province of Balochistan by arranging the subversive activities, promoting acrimonious sense of dissent, political volatility, sectarian violence and arousing sentiments of separatism.

While the US and India are also playing double game against each other. In this connection, in collusion with Afghanistan’s spy agency NDS, particularly, RAW has well-established its network in Afghanistan, and is fully assisting cross-border incursions and terror-activities in various regions of Pakistan through Baloch separatist elements and anti-Pakistan groups like Baluchistan Liberation Army (BLA), Jundullah (God’s soldiers) and TTP.

Nevertheless, Indian desperation in Afghanistan is increasing in the backdrop of growing engagements of Pakistan, Afghanistan, China and US. Therefore, by arranging terror-assaults in Pakistan and Afghanistan, India is also thwarting the peace process between the Afghan officials and representatives of Tehreek-e-Taliban Afghanistan, which started in Murree, Pakistan, on July 8, 2015 through a meeting, hosted by Islamabad, and in it, Chinese and American representatives, also participated. While, the US, China and Pakistan are jointly working to facilitate the process so as to bring peace both in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and the whole region.

US and especially New Delhi is also trying to sabotage the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and is targeting growing Pak-China-Afghanistan relations.

Although the US is acting upon dual strategy, yet by  waging a prolonged war in Afghanistan, the America and other NATO countries have realized that after the withdrawal of foreign troops, Afghanistan would be thrown in an era of uncertainly and civil war. They realize the fact that there is a co-relationship of terrorism or stability in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Therefore, US-led developed nations which also spent billions of dollars for the development of Afghanistan have repeatedly agreed that without Islamabad’s help, stability cannot be achieved there. Unfortunately, India does not intend to see peace in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Hence, India is undermining Pak-Afghan stability by creating unrest, and by sabotaging their cordial relations.

As regards the protracted conflict in Afghanistan, the problem cannot be solved through war and weaponry. Initiation of peace dialogue and positive engagements among the contestant groups can be the other practicable option.

Pakistan is desirous of peaceful Afghanistan and sincerely committed to play a positive role in facilitating atmosphere for the dialogue-parties.

Islamabad has categorically denounced any proximity with Taliban as propagated by Indian and western segments. The impression of proximity has been exploited to fan mistrust between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Pakistan has expressed its firm resolve to eradicate extremism and terrorism and military operation Zarb-e-Azb and National Action Plan is clear manifestation of the same.  

The entities which are playing double game are opposed to a peaceful Afghanistan. Therefore, they have always attempted to hinder or disrupt any positive outcome of Pak-Afghan engagement by exploiting holed up proxies to carryout terrorism either on Afghan soil or in Pakistan.

Due to Pakistan’s incontestable role in Afghan imbroglio, the country remains a prime target of vested countries and extra regional powers and have been witnessing terrorism through the ISIS which these hostile have themselves created to obtain the secret designs of America, India, Israel and some western countries.

Optimistically speaking, while appreciating increasing engagements at military level of both Pakistan and Afghanistan, media may urge political leadership to expend the contacts and engagements, so that the bilateral relations foster at all levels. 

For the purpose, the US-led developed countries must also realize that unlike India, Pakistan shares common geographical, historical, religious and cultural bonds with Afghanistan, while Pak-Afghan stability has a co-relationship, which is essential for their global and regional interests. Especially, America must abandon its double standard, and must check Indian hidden strategy against Pakistan, Afghanistan and other regional countries. Nonetheless, dual policy of the peace disruptors in Afghanistan must be stopped by the respective governments of these countries.

Returning to our earlier discussion, there were multiple designs behind the terror attack at the Charsadda’s university.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com