We've long believed that the Pakistan border tribal region of Waziristan was the home base of al Qaeda, and that their numbers were growing largely due to the acquiescence of the Pakistani government. Now, the NY Times reports that yesterday Pakistani troops fired warning shots at U.S. helicopters patrolling the border. The helicopters returned warning shots and turned back into Afghanistan.
Not a reassuring picture, given the $1 billion in aid we provide to Pakistan each year. And unlike Iran and Iraq, Pakistan is a nuclear weapons state, which makes it even more attractive for al Qaeda subversion. But don't tell Sen. McBombbombbomb or Preznit Dumbya. Victory in Iraq! Bomb Iran! High five! Booyah!
