The Pakistan Army has ordered its troops stationed along the border with Afghanistan to open fire on US troops if they cross border and come inside Pakistani territory. This is a significant development as it can aggravate the situation to a point which may destabilize the country.



We are always hearing the chorus of “do more” from the American side. Pakistan is already fighting a fierce battle with militants in the tribal areas. If the US forces cross into Pakistan it will generate a sympathy wave for the militants. It will also have an spillover affect in other parts of the country as well.



In seven years, United States with all its military might has not been able to gain victory in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now they want to hold Pakistan responsible for their failure. I think that US must provide financial as well as military assistance to Pakistan and coordinate with it if it wants to fight militancy in the tribal areas. It must also strengthen its position inside Afghanistan and try to bring peace in the country.