US drones killed Pakistani Taliban commander Baitullah Mehsud and 11 other people in a midnight raid. Mehsud was married a few days ago, but it is not clear whether his new wife was killed. On the other hand, Mehsud was reported dead in September 2008.
Context of the story:
Why is this important? The US has continually invaded Pakistan since September, but there is very little debate about the costs and benefits and the best procedure for these attacks. Recent attacks in Syria and Pakistan have caused demonstration against the US.
Who is involved? The US military is part of a NATO-led force in Afghanistan. The Taliban is a religious movement that wants to govern by religious law. Al Qaeda is a terrorist network with many people in Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan, often working with the Taliban. Pakistan is an US ally in the war on terror.
Where is this happening? North Waziristan is a tribal area in Northern Pakistan and near Afghanistan.
How can you get involved? Write to your political leaders and demand that the costs and benefits of attacking more countries be discussed in public. Use non-violent conflict resolution. Promote transparency in government and freedom of the press. Engage in cultural exchanges.
