27 people killed in suicide attack in Peshawar; Taliban again becoming active in Swat; Government initiates action on basis of UN report on assassination of Benazir Bhutto; Kerry:
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    • At least 27 people were killed in Peshawar and over 50 injured in a suicide bombing on April 20. The incident occurred immediately after the Jammat-e-Islami held a rally to protest against power cuts.1

    Reports also noted that the Taliban was actively targeting ‘pro government’ civilians in the Swat valley. Analysts noted that this indicated the return of the Taliban.2

    In the wake of the findings of a UN commission questioning the role of former President Musharraf and other officials in the death of Benazir Bhutto, the Pakistani government has decided to take action against those held responsible.3

    US Senator John Kerry expressed concern over the cut in the US international affairs budget by $4 billion. He added that the development could adversely affect counter terrorism operations in the Af-Pak region.4

    Reports noted that the US wanted Pakistan to participate in the negotiations in the CD regarding the ban of fissile materials. Pakistan has been blocking negotiations citing security concerns with India.5 In a related development, a bipartisan commission has advised the US Congress to institute a mechanism to prevent a war-like situation between nuclear armed neighbours India and Pakistan.6

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