Topic: Pakistan

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Briefing
Top 3 reasons why Al Qaeda is more dangerous than ever

On the one-year anniversary of Osama bin Laden’s death, defense analysts say that there are plenty of reasons to think that a resurgence of the perniciously resourceful Al Qaeda is not out of the question.
Who are the Taliban and what do they want? 5 key points

While Pakistani and Afghan insurgents often get labeled as the 'Taliban,' in reality there are several groups that often act independently and have distinct command structures, ideologies, and strategies.
Afghanistan: 5 areas of concern after the US leaves

The withdrawal of US and NATO forces from Afghanistan will have profound, direct effects on the country's security, economy, and society. Here are five areas that are likely to see an impact.
Expert Q&A: Who is Hafiz Saeed and why the $10 million bounty?

For a clearer picture of who Mr. Saeed is, the Monitor talked with a noted scholar and author on the region.
Censored: 5 plays and novels banned around the globe

Censorship of the arts has a long history, from ancient Greece to present-day Thailand. Here is a list of five plays and novels banned, for a variety of reasons, in regions across the globe.

All Content

Terrorism & Security
Pakistan seeks peace deal with militant tribe

The release of Maulana Sufi Muhammad in Islamabad on Monday suggests a shift in relations between the new government and militants.
General Petraeus to head U.S. forces in Middle East

The move brings greater focus to the conflict in Afghanistan. Lt. Gen. Odierno is set to succeed Petraeus in Iraq.
Terrorism & Security
Europeans see higher terror threat

A new tape by Al Qaeda's Ayman al-Zawahiri calls for reprisals in Europe, where officials see increasing terrorist activity and anger over provocative depictions of Islam.
World
Asia limits rice exports as prices and uncertainty rise

Top exporters are trading less of the staple food, hurting countries that rely on imports.
New in Theaters

Uma Thurman sees 'The Life Before Her Eyes' flash past after a Columbine-like school massacre; Morgan Spurlock goes looking for the world's most wanted fugitive in 'Where in the World is Osama bin Laden?'
Terrorism & Security
U.S. military prepares to train Pakistani forces

US officials have requested $750 million to expand a program designed to assist foreign militaries engaged in counterterrorism.
Letters to the Editor

Readers write about how humans treat animals.
World
Letters to the Editor

Readers write about the Zimbabwe elections, US-Colombia free trade, employment for returning reservists, and protesting the Iraq war.
World
Terrorism & Security
Al Qaeda mastermind believed dead

Abu Obaidah al-Masri, a secretive figure behind foiled terrorist plots in Europe, died a year ago, US intelligence officials say.
Terrorism & Security
Convicted terrorists escape Moroccan jail

The jailbreak coincides with the trial in London of eight suspects who allegedly attempted to bomb transatlantic planes.
Congress to hear Petraeus on Iraq with eye on U.S. elections

Democrats hope this week's hearings can shift the war's course. GOP wants Clinton, Obama to acknowledge its gains.
Symphonic diplomacy – and the touch of Christ

A Christian Science perspective on daily life.
Terrorism & Security
Counterterror debate turns to troop levels in Afghanistan, Iraq

Democrats say an overemphasis on the war in Iraq has come at the expense of Afghanistan and has allowed Al Qaeda to regroup in that region.
Afghanistan to ask NATO for bigger army of its own

At the NATO meeting in Romania Thursday, Afghan officials are expected to request money to expand its National Army from 86,000 to 120,000 troops.
Terrorism & Security
Pakistan's prime minister broaches Taliban peace

Newly elected Yousaf Raza Gillani's announcement may cause rift with US.
Grain prices soar globally

Rice shortages are appearing across Asia. In Egypt, the Army is now baking bread to curb food riots.
'Fitna': Dutch leader's anti-Islam film brings strife

Far-right politician Geert Wilders's latest attempt to air the controversial video has been delayed by US-based website host Network Solutions.
Terrorism & Security
Afghanistan aid delivery shortfall a security risk

An international agency's report says 40 percent of aid destined for Afghans is spent on overhead costs.
World
Bhutan wary of democratic change

The isolated nation holds its first-ever national election Monday after decades of guardianship by kings who severely limited contact with the outside world.
Musharraf is quickly losing his grip on Pakistan

Parliament is expected to confirm a new prime minister on Monday, further isolating Musharraf.
Terrorism & Security
Al Qaeda leaders call for new attacks

Messages from Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri step up the network's rhetoric on Gaza and the European media.