Conflict in Pakistan
Despite the Taliban being pushed out of power in Afghanistan in late 2001, units of the hard-line Islamist militant group remain entrenched along the frontiers of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Instability in the Pakistani government diverted attention from the developing battle for control of the region. This Guide looks at the modern history of Pakistan, and provides resources for understanding the conflict.
Expand All Guide SectionsOrigins of the Conflict in Pakistan
The Indian subcontinent was partitioned in 1947 after the British pulled out with the intention of ... read more »
The Pakistan Conflict Today
In October 1999, General Pervez Musharraf took over the Pakistani government in a military coup, ... read more »
The Impact of the Current Crisis in Pakistan
In mid-February 2009, in a bid to quell violence between the government and the Taliban, Pakistan allowed for the institution of sharia, or Islamic law, in the Swat Valley region near the country’s border with Afghanistan. Meanwhile, fighting in the Swat Valley has led to a humanitarian crisis in the region.
Top Sites for the Impact of the Current Crisis in Pakistan
FindingDulcinea
explains the crisis in the Pakistan’s Swat Valley region. As of May 2009, the Pakistani military had effectively formed a blockade around the area as part of its fight to contain some 5,000 Taliban militants. The blockade has translated into a humanitarian disaster, with civilians unable to leave and medical and food supplies kept out of the area.
The Voice of America
reported on May 25, 2009, that Taliban forces had agreed to stop attacking Pakistani forces in the Swat Valley region. Falling short of calling it a cease-fire, Taliban spokesperson Muslim Khan said that forces would not impede the way of civilians returning to Mingora, the main city in the area. The United Nations estimates 2.38 million people have been forced to flee the Swat Valley region because of Taliban/Pakistani army fighting.
The BBC
has a detailed map showing the area ravaged by the fighting between the Taliban and the Pakistani army.
© 2009 Dulcinea Media, Inc.
