Aryn Baker on the Dangerous Rise of Islamist Power in Pakistan

Talibanistan, the tribal region of Pakistan which forms the border with Afghanistan, is seen by Time Asia correspondent Aryn Baker as the breeding ground for a new generation of terrorists and a hideaway for al-Qaeda leaders. The “Talibanization” of the borderlands has renewed doubts about Pakistani President Musharraf’s willingness to track down jihadists. Furthermore, the loss of support from the president’s moderate base could deepen his dependence on Islamist parties. This development may directly threaten the West, because region has become a haven for terrorist recruitment. The best way to prevent Talibanistan from a shift towards fundamentalism is closer cooperation with local tribesmen.