That Pakistan is an Islamic State is a fact. Pakistan has to accomodate all shades of Islam whether of the moderate variety or of the extreme variety. The Jehadists, who represent the extremist face of the religious interpretation have already declared the US as the enemy and have taken up arms to fight the US and its NATO allies. In order that Pakistan becomes a true ally of the US, it has to represent the moderate opinion among its people and isolate the extremists not only physically but also from their own religion. This is a tall order and the balancing act that Mr Musharraf is indulging; cavorting with the angels while supping with the Devil is destined to rebound on him. Only time will tell when. He has to take sides one way or the other as the ground situation worsens for the US. At present the US does not find anyone more suitable than the General to take on the Taliban so they would consider him their best bet.
