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Deadly Embrace: Pakistan, America, and the Future of the Global Jihad
Pakistan and the United States have been locked in a deadly embrace for decades. Successive American presidents from both parties have pursued narrow short-term interests in the South Asian nation, and many of the resulting policies proved counterproductive in the long term, contributing to political instability and a radicalized public. This background has helped set the stage for the global jihad confronting much of the world today. In Deadly Embrace , Bruce Riedel explores the forces behind these developments, explaining how and why the history of Pakistan-U.S. relations has unfolded as it has. He explains what the United States can do now to repair the damage and how it can avoid making similar mistakes in dealing with extremist forces in Pakistan and beyond. Riedel is one of America's foremost authorities on U.S. security, South Asia, and terrorism, and he helped to craft President Obama's 2009 speech referring to the Pakistan-Afghanistan borderlands as the "most dangerous region of the world." He follows up The Search for al Qaeda , his influential 2008 analysis of the terror network's ideology and leadership, with a sober, authoritative, and sometimes alarming look at the history, importance, and current role of Pakistan, epicenter of the global jihad movement, beginning with the history of U.S.-Pakistan relations since the partitioning of the subcontinent in 1947. The relationship between Pakistan and America is a fascinating yet muddled story, meandering through periods of friendship and enmity, symbiosis and it's no wonder that people in both nations are confused. Deadly Embrace explains how the United States, on several occasions, actually helped the foes of democracy in Pakistan and aided in the development of the very enemies it is now fighting in the region. The book seeks to unravel this paradox, revealing and interpreting the tortuous path of relations between two very different nations, which
180 pages, Hardcover
First published January 3, 2010
15 people are currently reading
409 people want to read
About the author
Bruce Riedel
30 books52 followersBruce Riedel is a senior fellow and director of the Brookings Intelligence Project, part of the Brookings Center for 21st Century Security and Intelligence. In addition, Riedel serves as a senior fellow in the Center for Middle East Policy. He retired in 2006 after 30 years of service at the Central Intelligence Agency, including postings overseas. He was a senior advisor on South Asia and the Middle East to the last four presidents of the United States in the staff of the National Security Council at the White House. He was also deputy assistant secretary of defense for the Near East and South Asia at the Pentagon and a senior advisor at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in Brussels.
Riedel was a member of President Bill Clinton’s peace process team and negotiated at Camp David and other Arab-Israeli summits and he organized Clinton’s trip to India in 2000. In January 2009, President Barack Obama asked him to chair a review of American policy towards Afghanistan and Pakistan, the results of which the president announced in a speech on March 27, 2009.
In 2011, Riedel served as an expert advisor to the prosecution of al Qaeda terrorist Omar Farooq Abdulmutallab in Detroit. In December 2011, Prime Minister David Cameron asked him to brief the United Kingdom’s National Security Council in London on Pakistan.
Riedel is a graduate of Brown (B.A.), Harvard (M.A.), and the Royal College of Defense Studies in London. He has taught at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service and Johns Hopkins University’s School for Advanced International Studies, and he has been a guest lecturer at Dartmouth, Harvard, Brown, and other universities. Riedel is a recipient of the Intelligence Medal of Merit and the Distinguished Intelligence Career Medal.
Riedel was a member of President Bill Clinton’s peace process team and negotiated at Camp David and other Arab-Israeli summits and he organized Clinton’s trip to India in 2000. In January 2009, President Barack Obama asked him to chair a review of American policy towards Afghanistan and Pakistan, the results of which the president announced in a speech on March 27, 2009.
In 2011, Riedel served as an expert advisor to the prosecution of al Qaeda terrorist Omar Farooq Abdulmutallab in Detroit. In December 2011, Prime Minister David Cameron asked him to brief the United Kingdom’s National Security Council in London on Pakistan.
Riedel is a graduate of Brown (B.A.), Harvard (M.A.), and the Royal College of Defense Studies in London. He has taught at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service and Johns Hopkins University’s School for Advanced International Studies, and he has been a guest lecturer at Dartmouth, Harvard, Brown, and other universities. Riedel is a recipient of the Intelligence Medal of Merit and the Distinguished Intelligence Career Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 14, 2020
A quick and interesting read, focussing on the global Islamist Jihadi movement, Pakistan that could become it’s epicentre, and America’s diplomatic and military role. Most of the things aren’t new, but what makes this book worth reading is because it’s written by America’s foremost authority on US Security, South Asia and terrorism. Bruce Riedel served under four different US presidents, and so possessed the keen insight on the Jihadi movement flourishing for three decades in South Asia. He starts with understanding Pakistan a little, and then goes on to explain the concept of Jihad; be it Zia’s, Mullah Omar’s, Osama’s or global Jihad. He then reiterated the unthinkable concept of Pakistan being a Jihadi state; and the world order if that happens. There are many conspiracy theories directing specifically towards ISI and pakistani army’s role in exacerbating terrorist activities; though he’s not sure about it. Although he has explained how time and again, America has helped the enemies of Democracy in Pakistan, and helped the very threat it is now facing. The last chapter sheds light on helping Pakistan to come out of this mess and be a respectable independent nation.
January 3, 2019
This book took me a year to read dec 2018 to January 2019 😋
How a book about other developing country could be neutral if it is written by an agent/an officer of a developed country. The book is dealing with various issues in single time it is dealing with Pakistan is difficult, dangerous and so very important.
This book travel on road of Pak-US relations and road is rocky one. The writer discuss various events happen on this road, these relations are some time Jihaad and some timd terror .
Basically the book is based on analysis of a particupar person, while the analysis is about strategic and political one. And this analysis is going upon the most troubled and nuclear region where different countries occupying nuclear weapon as well as pakistan is holding best nuclear capability, US remains hurdle between all process and always furious about this matter. While on other had Riedel accepting this Pakistan has one of best nuclear missles/equipment. The writer is trying to invlove different countries in same belt of region.
He focus on Pak-Af and told how jihad has change the history of this region. If we see the book in nuteral point of view Pakistab remains important for US but at same time it is dangerous and important for US.
This book is totally in opposition of Pakistan a hard country which is considered as neutral book on History of Pakistan.
One point need to be ponder auther discuss about global jihad but the base of jihad is in Pakistan only while with change of time global jihad has changed its phenomenon as well as now its changing in Islamic terrorism and this title is also provided by USA.
The last chapter of book is important to read particulary the last paragraph is concluding or summarizing the book in it own way and covering the loops of author.
It summarise the American interests to Pakistan, which means to using Pakistan for the purposes of American policies and make succefull these policies in the region whatever hamperinf American objectives through Pakistan and making Pakidtan a bargaining State which is working on American instructions for American interests in the region.
This book is pre 9/11 book and we considet 9/11 as a game change but this clears that game is on before this event and we are the puppets of America since our establishment all this cause of relying on western and ignoring communisim. 9/11 was nothing but an avent of paving the ways of America towards Pak-Af.
This book is old but it is historical one so recommend to all history reader and foreign policy reader as well makers of policies.
How a book about other developing country could be neutral if it is written by an agent/an officer of a developed country. The book is dealing with various issues in single time it is dealing with Pakistan is difficult, dangerous and so very important.
This book travel on road of Pak-US relations and road is rocky one. The writer discuss various events happen on this road, these relations are some time Jihaad and some timd terror .
Basically the book is based on analysis of a particupar person, while the analysis is about strategic and political one. And this analysis is going upon the most troubled and nuclear region where different countries occupying nuclear weapon as well as pakistan is holding best nuclear capability, US remains hurdle between all process and always furious about this matter. While on other had Riedel accepting this Pakistan has one of best nuclear missles/equipment. The writer is trying to invlove different countries in same belt of region.
He focus on Pak-Af and told how jihad has change the history of this region. If we see the book in nuteral point of view Pakistab remains important for US but at same time it is dangerous and important for US.
This book is totally in opposition of Pakistan a hard country which is considered as neutral book on History of Pakistan.
One point need to be ponder auther discuss about global jihad but the base of jihad is in Pakistan only while with change of time global jihad has changed its phenomenon as well as now its changing in Islamic terrorism and this title is also provided by USA.
The last chapter of book is important to read particulary the last paragraph is concluding or summarizing the book in it own way and covering the loops of author.
It summarise the American interests to Pakistan, which means to using Pakistan for the purposes of American policies and make succefull these policies in the region whatever hamperinf American objectives through Pakistan and making Pakidtan a bargaining State which is working on American instructions for American interests in the region.
This book is pre 9/11 book and we considet 9/11 as a game change but this clears that game is on before this event and we are the puppets of America since our establishment all this cause of relying on western and ignoring communisim. 9/11 was nothing but an avent of paving the ways of America towards Pak-Af.
This book is old but it is historical one so recommend to all history reader and foreign policy reader as well makers of policies.
June 15, 2017
A brief primer on security dimension of US-Pakistan relations, specifically war on terror with necessary background information. The part I found particularly interesting is the contemplated hypothetical scenario of a Pakistan led by Jihadists. It provides an insight into how folks at Washington view their South Asian nightmare. Bruce Riedel was engaged by Obama to provide recommendations for his administration's Af-Pak Policy. The last chapter in the book summarizes that recommendation report, providing path forward for US-Pakistan relations.
The book seems a bit outdated due to rapidly changing dynamics of Islamic terrorism. The title is also a bit misleading, since global jihad only in context of groups operating from pakistan is discussed.
The book seems a bit outdated due to rapidly changing dynamics of Islamic terrorism. The title is also a bit misleading, since global jihad only in context of groups operating from pakistan is discussed.
July 22, 2016
Written by a true insider (member of Brookings Institution's Saban Center for Middle East Policy and 30 years with the CIA) and adviser to four US Presidents. Slightly out-of-date (before the assassination of Osama bin Laden) but still very pertinent and informative as it tells the story of the US's mishandling of its relationship with Pakistan since the Partition of 1947. Few westerners have any real knowledge of Pakistan history. For example, did you know that "The name Pakistan is basically an acronym compiled from the names of the areas of Punjab, Afghania, Kashmir, Sindh and Baluchistan" (p. 4)? I didn't.
After an excellent short summary of the history of relations between the US and Pakistan, Riedel turns to his major theme: concerns over the rise of the jihadist state in Pakistan and the escalation of global violence. The last chapter contains his experienced and realistic (but bound-to-be-unpopular-with-some) recommendations of how to begin to get US-Pakistani relations back on track by building dialogue and trust.
Much of Pakistan's situation today is the result of its focus on its neighbour (India)--the rise of its military establishment, the ISI, the appeal of military dictatorships, the ambivalent attitude towards its MANY political and jihadist factions. His recommendations, which after reading the preceding chapters, have the sound of pragmatism to them include resolving border disputes (Afghanistan, Kashmir) which necessitate a strong army and nuclear arms; helping Pakistan with its infrastructure (water, education) problems without the strings of past imposed "foreign aid" restrictions; engaging in strengthening Pakistan's civilian-elected leaders starting with the freely elected prime ministers (and NOT focusing on single individuals who may be rogue leaders in the end (e.g. Reagen's support of Zia, GW Bush's support of Musharraf) but in supporting all those fighting for democracy and free elections); providing them with the helicopters needed to fight highly mobile guerilla insurgent groups in the field; and in working with both India and Pakistan in ways that are supportive of peaceful relations between the two. As Riedel writes, "Pakistan is a complex and combustible society undergoing a severe crisis, which American helped create over the years" (p. 118). Yet he remains confident that Pakistanis and Americans can "transform what has long been a deadly embrace into a union of minds with a common purpose: to defeat the jihad monster" (p. 144).
After an excellent short summary of the history of relations between the US and Pakistan, Riedel turns to his major theme: concerns over the rise of the jihadist state in Pakistan and the escalation of global violence. The last chapter contains his experienced and realistic (but bound-to-be-unpopular-with-some) recommendations of how to begin to get US-Pakistani relations back on track by building dialogue and trust.
Much of Pakistan's situation today is the result of its focus on its neighbour (India)--the rise of its military establishment, the ISI, the appeal of military dictatorships, the ambivalent attitude towards its MANY political and jihadist factions. His recommendations, which after reading the preceding chapters, have the sound of pragmatism to them include resolving border disputes (Afghanistan, Kashmir) which necessitate a strong army and nuclear arms; helping Pakistan with its infrastructure (water, education) problems without the strings of past imposed "foreign aid" restrictions; engaging in strengthening Pakistan's civilian-elected leaders starting with the freely elected prime ministers (and NOT focusing on single individuals who may be rogue leaders in the end (e.g. Reagen's support of Zia, GW Bush's support of Musharraf) but in supporting all those fighting for democracy and free elections); providing them with the helicopters needed to fight highly mobile guerilla insurgent groups in the field; and in working with both India and Pakistan in ways that are supportive of peaceful relations between the two. As Riedel writes, "Pakistan is a complex and combustible society undergoing a severe crisis, which American helped create over the years" (p. 118). Yet he remains confident that Pakistanis and Americans can "transform what has long been a deadly embrace into a union of minds with a common purpose: to defeat the jihad monster" (p. 144).
July 26, 2016
Extremely informative in terms of Pakistan's tumultuous history of military and civilian rule. The information surrounding each ruler's rise and rule is detailed without sacrificing reader attention.
An extremely effective perspective of the underlying Indo-Pakistani regional power struggle (particularly over Kashmir) and the nuclear arms race is presented.
In ensuring to thoroughly document the American role in the region since 1945, the fractious and often bipolar relationships between American and Pakistani administrations is presented clearly and effectively.
Suggested solutions are plenty and based on factual realities.
All of this in under 150 pages. Worth it for a quick, but useful, brush up on Pakastani history and its significance to terrorism efforts in 21st Century.
Book was published in 2011 and could use an updated preface incorporating rise of lone wolf terrorism and post-ISIS Pakistan. Author seems to downplay actors like Zarqawi (and the pre-ISIS faction of al-Qaeda) as 'victims of their own brutality' as it related to their poor relations with local tribes (by 2016 an unfortunately outdated analysis). Only one or two sentences about those that would become ISIS and I would be very interested in this author's 2016 analysis.
An extremely effective perspective of the underlying Indo-Pakistani regional power struggle (particularly over Kashmir) and the nuclear arms race is presented.
In ensuring to thoroughly document the American role in the region since 1945, the fractious and often bipolar relationships between American and Pakistani administrations is presented clearly and effectively.
Suggested solutions are plenty and based on factual realities.
All of this in under 150 pages. Worth it for a quick, but useful, brush up on Pakastani history and its significance to terrorism efforts in 21st Century.
Book was published in 2011 and could use an updated preface incorporating rise of lone wolf terrorism and post-ISIS Pakistan. Author seems to downplay actors like Zarqawi (and the pre-ISIS faction of al-Qaeda) as 'victims of their own brutality' as it related to their poor relations with local tribes (by 2016 an unfortunately outdated analysis). Only one or two sentences about those that would become ISIS and I would be very interested in this author's 2016 analysis.
February 19, 2013
As usual Reidel scripts an excellent narrative of the shit in South Asia, the subterfuge of Pakistan, the blindness of America, and the impotence of India. Reidel actually goes out on a limb and offers a solution - resolve the Kashmir issue first - but sadly we all know that won't happen.
May 6, 2022
The author attempts to paint a dreadful view of a country of 220 mil people most of which are inherently peace and progress loving. Initially the book is more of a one sided narrative.
The ruling elites of the country composed of military dictators and or corrupt politicians have been supported and kept in power without fair accountability at any time. The two larger political parties' leadership is dynastic and the USA establishment allowed them to manipulate or even use anti establishment cards whenever suited the US not the people of Pakistan. The political parties of deeply corrupted leadership came to power with the help of the US, failed to deliver to the people of Pakistan and even to the USA. On the other hand, the military dictators, especially Zia ul Haq and Musharraf delivered a lot more to the US than the imposed civilian rulers. The book is kind of a testimony of Pakistani political leaders using the US government's help for getting into power as and when suited them.
The chapter 6 is built to show a dreadful view of Pakistan that it is all set to be a jihadist state. It dwells on a fearful impact on the rest of the world if Pakistan is not managed by outsiders.
The contents of the chapter 7 represents both sides (Pakistan & the US situations) more fairly stressing the need to recognize wishes of the people of Pakistan as is done in a truly democratic setting. It acknowledges that so far the USA has either supported dictators or corrupt politicians. It also acknowledges that various sanctions imposed on Pakistan have been counterproductive and as a result common Pakistanis do not trust the US.
I read this book nearly 11 years after its publication. The leadership in the two countries has changed twice. In the USA from Obama to Trump and Biden and in Pakistan from Zardari, Nawaz Sharif to Imran Khan and prematurely back to Sharif family in coalition with all other political parties against the PTI. Unfortunately the US has maneuvered this change in a shabby way; clearly against the public interest.
The ruling elites of the country composed of military dictators and or corrupt politicians have been supported and kept in power without fair accountability at any time. The two larger political parties' leadership is dynastic and the USA establishment allowed them to manipulate or even use anti establishment cards whenever suited the US not the people of Pakistan. The political parties of deeply corrupted leadership came to power with the help of the US, failed to deliver to the people of Pakistan and even to the USA. On the other hand, the military dictators, especially Zia ul Haq and Musharraf delivered a lot more to the US than the imposed civilian rulers. The book is kind of a testimony of Pakistani political leaders using the US government's help for getting into power as and when suited them.
The chapter 6 is built to show a dreadful view of Pakistan that it is all set to be a jihadist state. It dwells on a fearful impact on the rest of the world if Pakistan is not managed by outsiders.
The contents of the chapter 7 represents both sides (Pakistan & the US situations) more fairly stressing the need to recognize wishes of the people of Pakistan as is done in a truly democratic setting. It acknowledges that so far the USA has either supported dictators or corrupt politicians. It also acknowledges that various sanctions imposed on Pakistan have been counterproductive and as a result common Pakistanis do not trust the US.
I read this book nearly 11 years after its publication. The leadership in the two countries has changed twice. In the USA from Obama to Trump and Biden and in Pakistan from Zardari, Nawaz Sharif to Imran Khan and prematurely back to Sharif family in coalition with all other political parties against the PTI. Unfortunately the US has maneuvered this change in a shabby way; clearly against the public interest.
Read
August 13, 2023Having just turned the final page of "Deadly Embrace: Pakistan, America, and the Future of the Global Jihad," I find myself compelled to share my thoughts on this eye-opening literary journey. The book's intricate exploration of the complex dynamic between Pakistan and the United States unveils a profoundly intricate narrative that has played a pivotal role in shaping the global fight against terrorism. As I immersed myself in its pages, I was struck by the authors' meticulous research and their ability to untangle the intricate threads of history, politics, and strategic interests that have woven together to create the tapestry of the present-day global jihad. This book not only sheds light on the entwined relationship of these nations but also prompts a deeper reflection on the broader implications of their choices on international security. In the wake of this read, one cannot help but ponder the unintended consequences and lasting ramifications that continue to reverberate across the world stage. "Deadly Embrace" serves as a poignant reminder that the past is intricately connected to the future and that understanding these connections is paramount in navigating the complexities of our world.
July 10, 2020
Bruce Riedel (Born 1953), is a well-known American author. He is a former CIA analyst and counter terrorism expert. He served as an advisor of four USA presidents on Middle East and South Asia issues. He served 29 years as a CIA officer and retired in 2006. the book, Deadly Embrace is a remarkable work based on author‘s momories and personal experiences. In this book, he has reviewed the American policy toward Pakistan and Afghanistan on Barack Obama‘s request. It’s about the relationship of America and Pakistan. This book is about the global jihad which started from Afghan war and expanded in the whole world.
May 22, 2018
Written by an Obama insider and long-term CIA employee Bruce Ridel; this book from 2011 has become quite dated and reads very much like a Brookings policy paper rather than a full length book. It does however have the benefit of having interviews and contributions from the major political actors involved in the Pakistan-US relationship owing to the author's access to the individuals in question and his own part in the relationship between the two countries.
March 1, 2019
I read this book 3 years ago. It's a short but great read. I personally feel the recommendations are biased. Since it doesn't involve them, parties not subject to consequences I don't agree with the them. I felt as if they are telling India to be more submissive.
But dynamic changes like Jihad growing rapidly, immigration from Middle East and other factors I think we need to revaluate. These recommendations are pretty much redundant.
But dynamic changes like Jihad growing rapidly, immigration from Middle East and other factors I think we need to revaluate. These recommendations are pretty much redundant.
July 4, 2021
The more I learn about the Middle East and the American involvement there, the more I realize how much more there is to know. I found this book to be a strong introduction to the long and tortured relationship between our two countries. A must read, IMHO.
July 28, 2018
Awesome
September 13, 2018
Must read. Typical Bruce Riedel book. The hallmarks of a master story-teller, an ability that Bruce must have developed from the numerous briefings to senior US Govt officials and Presidents.
Well researched book on how the strategic partnership between US and Pakistan has been a deadly embrace. Narrow Short term interests from various American Presidents have let this rough relationship to continue, with periods of large expansion.
Author presents the history of U.S.-Pakistani relations from partition of India in 1947 to present day. How the Islamization happened in Pakistan. The dynamics of US policy and engagement of Pakistan, the crests and troughs of the bumpy ride from deep friendship to enemity between two countries from 1947 to first decade of 21st century, or President Obama's first term. In the end, author acutely discussed the possible trajectories for Pakistan, options that US has to deal with it, and India figures in it all.
Overall it provides an insightful perspective on the relations between two very different counrties that still remain stuck with each other in many ways.
Must read to understand today's Pakistan, where it can go, what would be its implications for US, India, South Asia and the world as a whole.
Recommended for people studying Indo-US relations, since almost all Indo-Pak issues had some bearing from the major world powers of the time and this book covers those aspects very well.
Well researched book on how the strategic partnership between US and Pakistan has been a deadly embrace. Narrow Short term interests from various American Presidents have let this rough relationship to continue, with periods of large expansion.
Author presents the history of U.S.-Pakistani relations from partition of India in 1947 to present day. How the Islamization happened in Pakistan. The dynamics of US policy and engagement of Pakistan, the crests and troughs of the bumpy ride from deep friendship to enemity between two countries from 1947 to first decade of 21st century, or President Obama's first term. In the end, author acutely discussed the possible trajectories for Pakistan, options that US has to deal with it, and India figures in it all.
Overall it provides an insightful perspective on the relations between two very different counrties that still remain stuck with each other in many ways.
Must read to understand today's Pakistan, where it can go, what would be its implications for US, India, South Asia and the world as a whole.
Recommended for people studying Indo-US relations, since almost all Indo-Pak issues had some bearing from the major world powers of the time and this book covers those aspects very well.
Want to read
November 5, 2011While reading "Obama's War" I discovered Bruce Riedel through Bob Woodward's very solid newshound research. Pres. Obama brought him in for an assessment, 90 days, of what was really going on. Despite the fact that he had some of the best guys, and I'm not a Democrat, in the top Security/Pentagon/Cabinet slots he wanted to hear from the world's foremost authority on that region of the world.
What a book that was. Details all the way. No fluff. But, so well written that folks that like mystery, war, crime, documentary style reads will love it. After my own research and discussions with friends (in the know) I felt confident that Riedel gave us a very real perspective on radical Islam and just what is going on. Very scary stuff. Very, very real.
I'm looking forward to getting through this one. So, I haven't read it. But, knowing Riedel, who is not an author, per se, it's gonna be good.
Bruce Riedel is an intelligence expert. He's been turned to by everyone that matters when it comes to the Jihad.
Enjoy. But, you will learn things that can be frightening.
What a book that was. Details all the way. No fluff. But, so well written that folks that like mystery, war, crime, documentary style reads will love it. After my own research and discussions with friends (in the know) I felt confident that Riedel gave us a very real perspective on radical Islam and just what is going on. Very scary stuff. Very, very real.
I'm looking forward to getting through this one. So, I haven't read it. But, knowing Riedel, who is not an author, per se, it's gonna be good.
Bruce Riedel is an intelligence expert. He's been turned to by everyone that matters when it comes to the Jihad.
Enjoy. But, you will learn things that can be frightening.
August 17, 2011
Admittedly, my knowledge of The Middle East is close to, if not fully, pathetic. Riedel, a former C.I.A. officer working with several presidents over the past decades, covers U.S.-Pakistan relations in this brief, but dramatic book, along with a quick run down of Pakistani history, particularly focusing on militant rule in the worn-torn nation.
I found the book to be incredibly fascinating, and I highly recommend it to anyone with a short attention span that wants to get right into the meat and bones of our issues with The Middle East.
EDIT: Correction- "Central Asia," as pointed out by my best friend - "normally saying middle east has connotations of being arabic (and to a lesser extent muslim), so while pakistan is muslim, it is not arabic." - Thank you :]
Obviously geography is not my forté. That needs to change...
I found the book to be incredibly fascinating, and I highly recommend it to anyone with a short attention span that wants to get right into the meat and bones of our issues with The Middle East.
EDIT: Correction- "Central Asia," as pointed out by my best friend - "normally saying middle east has connotations of being arabic (and to a lesser extent muslim), so while pakistan is muslim, it is not arabic." - Thank you :]
Obviously geography is not my forté. That needs to change...
June 21, 2011
Riedel's follow up to The Search For al Qaeda is an important look at the history of Pakistan from its formation to its current political situation. Riedel provides a history of relations between the U.S. and Pakistan and highlights the drastic changes that have occurred with American and Pakistani regime change. Riedel reveals a little more of his political leanings and is harshly critical of the Bush administration in this book. He also reveals his favor for Obama. Like George Packer in his book The Assassin's Gate, Riedel seems to hold a paternalistic view of Pakistan and wants to see it succeed. While he does spell out the dangers of the worst case scenario in Pakistan (an Islamic extremist regime with the capability of firing and distributing nuclear weapons) he seems somewhat optimistic about the future.
October 1, 2012
This book, written by Burce Riedel (a former CIA officer and advisor to four US Presidents on Middle East and South Asian issues), is an indepth analysis of the US foreign policy towards Pakistan and its consequences in AfPak region. The author, wherever necessary, has critically reviewed the decisions and policies of United States towards Pakistan. It also outlines US decision to hob-nob with Pakistan's military dictators at various points in last half a century, which has been to a great extent one of the reason for emergence of golobal 'jihad' as we know it today. The book is very insightful and divulge on many intricate issues for understanding of situation in AfPak.
June 26, 2012
A very readable and brief description of America's relationship with Pakistan. Riedel clearly knows his stuff, but I wish the book had more discussion of Pakistan's domestic politics. He does discuss this a bit, but I would have liked to see a discussion of how Riedel's proposed solutions are workable in the present political environment within Pakistan. For example, he proposes a "soft" border between Indian and Pakistani Kashmir. But I wonder whether this is really a politically achievable solution in Pakistan.
July 29, 2015
The most important chapter to read in this book is chapter six. The author tapping into his vast experience acknowledges that there is not much US can do should there be an Islamic State in Pakistan.
Also the last line of the book summarise the American view towards Pakistan, which is to use Pakistan for American objectives in the region or whatever hampers American objectives - Pakistan to be a transactionary State which does American bidding for American interests.
The last line ..."common purpose: to defeat the Jihadi monster" is it really a common purpose or US interest?
Also the last line of the book summarise the American view towards Pakistan, which is to use Pakistan for American objectives in the region or whatever hampers American objectives - Pakistan to be a transactionary State which does American bidding for American interests.
The last line ..."common purpose: to defeat the Jihadi monster" is it really a common purpose or US interest?
August 15, 2012
A nice overview of the global terrorism landscape. Interesting to discover how the terrorism factory is run by a relatively small group of people. Also, interesting to learn that the global community has always been aware of Pakistan's dubious role as a terrorist monger as well as a black marketeer of nuclear technology but more or less did nothing. A useful read for all interested in Pakistan as well as global terror.
January 31, 2012
This is written by a senior fellow in Foreign policy, former CIA officer and adviser to 4 US presidents. I found some fact interesting, but the approach is typically that of the administration(s) and dont get the local culture. He has understood that most Pakistanis "hate" the US, and describes this is some detail, but the solutions suggested will not solve much. A disappointing book
April 18, 2013
Although written before the death or Osama Bib Laden, this is still an important and timely book. Dealing with Pakistan is difficult, dangerous and so very important.
Understanding the issues our US leaders must consider helps up participate.
Understanding the issues our US leaders must consider helps up participate.
January 20, 2016
A good read. Account and analysis from a man who has seen it all so close. It explains the mistakes of certain policy makers that did not help in ending terrorism at a time when it was controllable but instead brought it to the sad state it is now.
March 24, 2017
a biased story presenting us side of the story.. events are at times just missed or only hinted at thus not presenting the full spectrum analysis. however last chapter is very realistic with some practical recommendations that if implemented can present a way forward in indo pak relations.
Read
June 16, 2011A nice primer for terrorism and global jihad in pakistan. Riedel also provided a good, brief history of pakistan and how that history has intertwined with jihad.
August 25, 2014
umm..... good account but a bit biased as well...
March 25, 2012
One of the best geo political analysis of the most troubled region in the world. Highly recommended
May 24, 2012
Great, understandable history that shed a lot of light on the current Pakistan/Afghanistan/Indian situation.
February 13, 2013
A bit long, but a good summary of our history with Pakistan. (and Pakistan's history with India)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews