It was hoped that the new United States administration will review its aggressive policy of combating militancy and terrorism in Pakistan.  Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani had already promised the country that there would be no more drone attacks once Obama became president. But unfortunately nothing has changed. On January 23, a few days after President Obama took office; three drone missiles hit the village of Zharaki in North Waziristan and killed at least 22 people among them many civilians. The story has not ended here and now it is being reported that the new United States administration is considering stepping up missiles attacks in Pakistan.

Drone attacks in Pakistan are counter-productive, short-sighted and in no way serve the long-term interest of Pakistan and United States. Aimed at targeting the Al-Qaeda and Taliban militants, these drone attacks have resulted in a greater civilian death toll. The situation among the local people is quite alarming. These attacks are leading to mental disorders. It has helped fuel fanaticism as extremist elements have exploited these kinds of aggressive actions to their advantage. It has caused some local people to join the militants. Moreover it has isolated the Pakistan Army from the tribe’s people and has affected Pakistan’s own authority to contain militancy. Killing a militant or two at the cost of lives of ten or more civilians will do nothing but create anti-American feelings among the local people. United States cannot win this war without the support of the local people of tribal areas. But these deadly attacks have severely undermined public support for counter-terrorism measures. Death of every innocent will bring more hatred to United States. A civilian who has lost his innocent family in a drone attack will go a long way to take his revenge. Who knows he may become another Osama Bin Laden or Mullah Omer?

The United Stated administration should adopt a more comprehensive and holistic approach towards dealing with the issue of terrorism in Pakistan. The unilateral action in tribal areas should be halted immediately. United States policies towards Pakistan should serve the interests of both nations.