Peace Talk Rumors Raises Tensions In Afghanistan

Afghanistan In Turmoil After Peace Talk Rumours -- The Guardian

Pakistan proposes peace talks between Hamid Karzai and a notorious insurgent commander triggering political tensions

Pakistani proposals for peace talks between President Hamid Karzai and a notorious insurgent commander have triggered political tensions inside Afghanistan that analysts warn could dangerously destabilise the country.

Western officials say Pakistan's ISI spy agency has offered to negotiate with Sirajuddin Haqqani – an al-Qaida linked commander accused of numerous suicide attacks – as part of a broader initiative to find a find a settlement to the conflict.

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Update: Afghan talks raise speculation -- Al Jazeera

My Comment: Afghanistan's minority groups are clearly upset with these developments, but CIA Director Panetta's skepticism on the success of these talks is probably right.

What is my take .... Pakistan is trying to broker a deal in order to have a say in future peace and reconciliation talks in Afghanistan. To get to the table they are threatening the Haqqani network that if they do not try to resolve their differences with the Kabul Government, Pakistani forces will be launched against their safe havens on the Pakistan-Afghan border .... hence the talks.

But will anything come out of these talks .... hmmm .... I doubt it. To reconcile with an enemy that you regard is a puppet of the infidels is something that the Taliban and their Al Qaeda allies do not do .... it will be an affront to their religious convictions. This is all theater and show .... and a tactical move to buy time from having Pakistani forces attacking Haqqani camps on their side of the Pakistan border.