THE CIA connection… Benazir Bhutto’s assassination was pre-planned: The Zia Model with a twist: The continued CIA conspiracies in Pakistan Part 2: Details of article

Posted on January 6, 2008 by Moin Ansari

| PAKISTAN LEDGER | پاکستاني کھاتا | December 28th, 2007 | Moin Ansari | معین آنصآرّی | Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape | RUPEE NEWS | Moin Ansari | December 28th, 2007 | معین آنصآرّی | اخبار روپیہ | The CIA connection… BENAZIR BHUTTO’S ASSASSINATION WAS PRE-PLANNED: THE ZIA MODEL WITH A TWIST: THE GREAT GAME CONTINUES: When the Elephants dance, the grass gets crushed. The continued CIA conspiracies in Pakistan. Another Pakistani leaders falls to an international game between the USA, China and Russia. Pakistanis again pay the price.

The Alegeriafication of Pakistan & Egyptianization of Bangladesh may yield Iranian type of revolutions

Political assassinations, judicial murders, military takeover, and manipulated coup de etats by unelected leaders are seminal events in the history of any nation. The asassination of Benazir Bhutto is all the more traumatic for Pakistanis and others because “nothing seems like what it is”. Any murder is investigated on the concept of motive, opportunity and benifits from the murder. The same criteria has to be applied to the death of Benazir Bhutto. The beneficiaries of the death of Benazir Bhutto are not those who were blamed initially for her death.

When the Elephants dance, the grass gets crushed. The continued CIA involvement in Pakistan. Another Pakistani leaders falls to an internation game betwen the USA, and China and Russia, and Paksitanis again pay the priceThe Benazir Assassoination: CIA connection…the details by Moin Ansari

Updated  July 23rd, 2008. 

That threat and his judicial murder has repurcussions today on Pakistan US relationsSUMMARY OF BENAZIR BHUTTO MURDER ARTICLE

Editors Note:  This article investigates the real reasons for the death of Benazir Bhutto and the reasons behind the events that happened just before her murder. This remains the most popular articles on this site with many thousands of hits. We keep updating it. Visit it often and leave feedback! It has also spawned many other articles. Reuters page (This article reviewed by Reuters analysis):,   India vs. Pakistan–Gwador vs. Chabahar.

The mainstream media has finally caught up with the verity of this article. 

On Jan 23rd, The Peoples Daily and Tehran Times clearly blamed outside interference in Pakistan. On Jan 9th, The New York times confirmed the “CIA” coverts operations in Pakistan. On Feb 9th, 2008, Mr. Hamid Gul, Pakistan’s Master spy validated the story about the CIAs involvement in the assassination.

As we updated the article the volume of information available became large. The summary itslef has grown to the size of a full fledged article. We are inclined to totally reformat the article but do not want to risk losing our readership and the links which have been posted globally to it.

Perfect stormBackground of the Assassination

THE IRANIAN OIL BOURSE OPENS ON FEB 11th challenging the hegemony of the Almighty DollarThe Pakistan Army and it head at the time, President Musharraf refuses to allow Pakistani airspace, and disallow the USA to attack Iran from Pakistani bases. Pakistan refuses to join in the fight against Iran. Despite objections, Pakistan continues to work on a pipeline from Iran through Pakistan to India. This situation is very similar to what Khan Liaqat Ali Khan faced in 1952. LAK also refused to fight against Iran. (see detailed article on this with actual declassified US embassy reports from 1953).  Spy vs. Spy: Kabul, London, Delhi, Islamabad and Swat. Taliban prepare for Spring. We now present the summary and then the thesis accompanied with the citations from a plethora of sources.

Java Trench -7,258 m.The Strategy for the Assassination

  • //www.moinansari.wordpress.comThe Benazir assassination was pre-planned and executed via triangulation by Khad, RAW, CIA and Mossad using the most modern radio active weapons available in the market. The Israeli PM publicly admitted helping India in Kargil recently.
  • This flag is based on the Ottoman and Turkish flags. It was popularized during the Khilafat movement. Alama Iqbal said “khanjar hilal ka hai qaumi nishan hai”. It was presented to the National Assembly by Khan Liaqat Ali Khan.On 16th of October, the Turkish Prime Minster went to the Turkish nation and asked them “when we needed them, the Pakistani Muslims were there for the Ottoman “khilafat”, today your brothers and sisters need you in their hour or need”. From across the great nation of Turkey, school girls, and old men, student and professionals gave and gave and gave. Turkey became the largest donor for the Earthquake relief.The purpose of the covert Khad, RAW, CIA, Mossad operations is to destabilize Pakistan.  The IMF plan to de-fang Pakistan in 2000 did not work, but provincial autonomy will make the center bankrupt triggering an implosion. See article on IMF tactics for Pakistan

When the Elephants dance, the grass gets crushed. The continued CIA involvement in Pakistan. Another Pakistani leaders falls to an international game between the USA, and China and Russia, and Pakistanis again pay the priceThe Assassination and the Destabilization

PART 2

THE DETAILS OF OUR THESIS

Table of Contents:

  • i) Hamid Gul’s statement confirming conspiracy
  • ii) CIA Psy-Operations manual and what they do to destabilize a country
  • iii) Pakistan’s Representative the UN Mr. Munir Akram confirming conspiracy
  • iv) Pre-planned operations
  • v) China confirms conspiracy and asks powers to back off.
  • vi) Iran’s government controlled Teheran Times discusses Trilateral Triangulation
  • vii) The New York Times confirm covert operations in Pakistan
  • viii) CIA Operation and Zia Murder: The Case of the Exploding Mangoes
  • ix) Mistrust with President Musharraf and the Americans grows because of Pakistan Army’s growing independence and American frustration in Afghanistan and Iraq.
  • x) Mr. Asif Zardari’s criminal background
  • xi) Trust Deficit between Pakistan Army and the US exacerbated by lobbying firms hired by Mr. Zardari in the US assisted by the Neocon Mr. Husain Haqqani
  • xii) CIA hatches plan to replace Mr. Musharraf who is to be replaced by a complaint Prime Minister
  • xiii) Mr. Negroponte, and an expert in “Targeted Assassinations” learned from the Israeli experience in Palestine executes “drone bombing” on Pakistani territory
  • xiv) CIA Dirty Tricks launch destabilization campaign with the usual “Food Shortages”, “Street Demonstrations”, “Sucide bombings” and “Ethnic Strife”. Ms. Sidqa releases “Military Inc.” from India with support from RAW and Mossad.
  • xv) Indian RAW is in action mainly from its military base in Tajikistan but also from the 4 “Embassies” and 13 Information Cneters spread around key locations in Afghanistan. The BLA is funded and supported by RAW and Mossad. The US Congress funds $450 million for operations in Balauchistan. A “Government of Baluchistan” is setup with headquarters in Tel Aviv.
  • xvi) Michel Chossudovsky discusses Pakistan’s hidden Oil reserves.
  • xvii) The Ralph Peter’s plan vs Pakistan’s Strategic depth plan
  • xviii) The IMF Plan to take over Pakistan by strangling it in debt deficits and destablization
  • xix) Previous CIA interference in Pakistan
  • xx) The CIA planned to send Benazir to Paksitan. She had promised to turn over Qadir Khan and also turn over the Nukes (Interview in Parade Magazine…CNN transcript confirms this). When she tried to change direction she was killed.
  • xxi) American Media along with CNN Geo and ARY unleash Anti-Musharraf campaign
  • xxii) The Bhutto Jinx.
  • xxiii) The CIA interference in Pakistan: The Murder of Liqat Ali Khan was instituted when he refused to assist the USA in the Iran and had agreed upon a confederation between Afghanistan and Pakistan
  • xxiv) The judicial murder of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto in a CIA operation after Mr. Henry Kissinger threatened him and asked him to cease and desist from a Nuclear program.
  • xxiv) Benazir Bhutto’s bid for power in Pakistan was “Made in America“. She used the CIA, and the CIA used her.
  • xxv) There was a falling out between BB and the CIA after she reached Pakistan.
  • xxvi) Message to the USA: “Hands Off Pakistan”
  • xxvii) Short Term Reaction to US moves in Pakistan: A rise in Anti-Americanism in the region.
  • xxviii) Long Term Reaction to American Macro-Management of Pakistani affairs: An Historic Realignment is in the offing.
  • xix) American’s are surprised at the resilience of the Pakistanis and their pugnacious and strong response to American attempts at undermining their sovereignty
  • xx) Iranian type of revolution in Pakistan is a possibility if the US and RAW machinations continue.
  • xxi) The US plans for Pakistan’s Nuclear weapons.
  • xxii) PAKISTANI REACTION: Major realignment in the offing.
  • xxiii) SOLUTION TO AFGHAN QUAGMIRE: Saving the Pashtuns of Afghanistan in Pakistani Afghania
  • xxiv)  

“To me, I confess, [countries] are pieces on a chessboard upon which is being played out a game for dominion of the world.”Lord Curzon, viceroy of India, speaking about Afghanistan, 1898 

Hamid GulPAKISTAN’ SPYMASTER POINTS FINGER AT CIA: The super spy is no ally of Musharraf and participated in the demonstrations against Mr. Musharraf.  

It was not the jehadis but that is what the Americans would have us believe. They have designs for Pakistan and I strongly believe that the Americans have got her eliminated because this is the way they deal with countries like Pakistan. They either use them or subdue them. In the case of Pakistan, it is both.The Americans worked out a model during the days of Zia-ul-Haq. Junejo was brought in to give the label of democracy and to gradually ease Zia out of office after he had been used but it didn’t work out. Zia got wind of it and removed Junejo from office. The Americans got very upset and destroyed Zia.I make no bones about saying this. I’ll quote from Nixon’s book In the Arena (page 109) in which he says when Zia-ul-Haq’s plane went down, “instantly it came to my mind that why we Americans destroy our friends after we have used them”. America is a very important player in our domestic politics. Mr. Hamid Gul, former head of ISI. Interview in Tehelka Magazine 

When the Elephants dance, the grass gets crushed. The continued CIA involvement in Pakistan. Another Pakistani leaders falls to an internation game betwen the USA, and China and Russia, and Paksitanis again pay the priceCIA PSYCHOLOGICAL OPERATIONS (PSY-OP) FROM THE MANUAL: The declassified documents are old, but it gives us a glimpse into what can happen. New techniques are more sophisticated.

The implements of psychological warfare are: open propaganda, subversion, special operations (sabotage, guerrilla warfare, espionage), political and cultural pressures, economic pressures. The principal effects sought are persuasion, sympathy, terrorization, confusion, division and physical interference. These operations, ancient in origin, are modernly employed, notably by Italy, Germany, the Soviet Union and other principal powers. The programs are planned more or less centrally in all nations, but executed by a variety of agencies. Memorandum on Intelligence for Psychological Warfare, by General John Magruder, Feb. 1943  

Contact with underground movements through Foreign Nationalities Branch, through Labor Desk, SI, through independent emigres in this country (Mrs. Rado), through eventual MO Representatives in London, Stockholm, etc. Bribery and subsidies, maintain contact names index file, and work through MO Foreign Representatives and their agents. Blackmail — maintain contact names index file and work through MO Foreign Representatives and their agents. Counterfeiting. Currency reference for Mr. Healy’s James Hecksher and Mr. Shubart, Bank of the Manhattan Company, regarding foreign currencies, ration cards, passports, personal papers of the enemy prisoners or dead. Rumor and whispering campaigns — see special memo on these. Abduction — see Sedgwick proposals. Chain letters with cupidity, superstition and fear as main employed motives. Poisoning (tricks and toy gadget) instructions as to how to make or use these things in enemy occupied or enemy countries, actual distribution. Assassination by suggestion or agents. Illness and epidemics by suggestion or contagion. Diver’s manipulations: black market in neutral countries, discrediting by cartoons (Artsybasheff and Szyk). Possibility for MO Activity, by Frederick Oechsner, April 21, 1943

Instrumentality and media: open propaganda (radio, press, films); subversive: black propaganda, rumor spreading, “poison pen”, bribery, etc., physical destruction, guerrilla operations, etc., aimed to induce confusion, uncertainty, and fear; combat psychological warfare: activities carried on within the military ranks (radio, prisoner indoctrination, panic-production, etc.); economic pressure; diplomatic pressure; social contacts. Psychological warfare tactics: fraternization or neutralization, conversion (appeals to belief), soporifics (alleviation of anxieties), appeasement (appeals to expediency); disruption or attack, terror (aims to frighten), vilification (aims to undermine self-respect), confusion (aims to stir up conflicts between groups, over ideologies) Factors to be Considered in Planning Psychological Warfare Strategy, Nov. 3, 1942

The Operational Use of MO Material, circa 1944

The Morale Operations Branch should function largely as a planning unit and must rely upon SO and SI in the field for the activation of its plans. PW Operations – Future Operations as Affected by Current Military and Political Events, August 9, 1943

The greatest migration in history was the exchange of 11.5 million people between India and Pakistan in 1947 accompanied by the massacre of another half a million. The migration of 3.5 million Afghan refugees into Pakistan from 1979 to 1987 was almost as disruptive. The separation of Bangladesh was, until the dismemberment of the Soviet empire in 1991, the only successful secession of the post World War II era. Three wars with India over what is essentially a boundary dispute bloodied with ethnic cleansing in Kashmir, and now continued turbulence and terrorism based in part on drug distribution and in part on the presumption of the development of nuclear weapons capacity.Subversion operations, other than physical, will be conducted within enemy countries, within enemy-occupied or controlled countries and within other areas where action or counter-action may be effective against the enemy. Such operations have for their purpose: inciting or spreading dissension, creating confusion and disorder, encouraging and supporting resistance and revolt against the enemy and the enemy government. The means (other than open propaganda) for carrying out the above operations are: by rumors and black propaganda; by contact with and manipulation of individuals and underground groups. Excerpts from “Provisional Basic Field Manual — Psychological Warfare” with regard to MO, May 1943

There are tens of thousands of rumors in the OSS files. Those listed in the country-specific webpages are either from sustained campaigns, or are novel in some way. Rumors were designed to achieve long-range MO objectives, but were normally related to current events. Rumor themes were orchestrated by the “MOPO Committee” and coordinated with rumor campaigns of the British Political Warfare Executive (PWE). The British referred to rumors as “sibs”.

The following are the more important strategic uses of rumor for subversive purposes: Dividing the enemy by means of fostering distrust and suspicion between enemy allies, the enemy and collaborationists or within the enemy population itself. Terrorization by means of circulating rumors of a terrifing character. Certain rumors of this type when properly timed may be employed to precipitate panic. Arouse unwarranted optimism. This strategy is most effective in order to pave the way for the greateest psychological impact of impending defeat upon the enemy. Thus hopes are raised only to be precipitiously dashed. Deception. Here rumors are circulated primarily with the aim of deceiving enemy intelligence. Rumor Lecture for MO Course, circa 1943

Planting false information in the news media. This was done on CNN for Saddam Husein.

Confirming our conversation of this date I suggest that an inquiry be made relative to the foreign circulation of such periodicals as the New York Times, Lifeand Time Magazine, Armyand Navy Journal, Inventors Journal, etc. It is obvious that if these periodicals are dispatched by airmail to Lisbon, for example, the German authorities there will immediately relay the periodicals to the proper authorities in Berlin. If it is possible; if it has not already been done; and if it is within our province I suggest that we could utilize this situation to our advantage by “planting” articles in such foreign edition for the benefit of enemy consumption. Interoffice Memo From Maj. Gen. George H. White, Jan. 18, 1944

See Appendix for some more details on CIA PSY-OPS.

Missle development and production in the world is truly a global enterprise. The first “rockets” on the planet were Chinese. The 1st tribal war in Europe also known as WW1 saw the introuction of bombs and rocket many laced with deadly chemical weapons. The death toll was over 15 million people killed. The 2nd tribal war in Europe was more devastating with over 50 million killed. German V-2 rockets rained down on London and destroyed most of it.Munir Akram Pak representative to US wrote to the Editor of The New York Times:Selig S. Harrison’s Feb. 1 Op-Ed article, “Drawn and Quartered,” will confirm the belief of many Pakistanis that there is an international conspiracy to destabilize and disintegrate Pakistan, the only Islamic nuclear state.

The orchestrated campaign against President Pervez Musharraf, the denigration of the Pakistani Army, calls for the capture of Pakistan’s nuclear assets, the string of suicide bombings and terrorism in Baluchistan are all seen as aimed at this malevolent design.

Pakistan is a strong state held together solidly by the patriotism of its people and the strength of its civilian and military institutions. With a dynamic (7 percent) annual growth rate, significant foreign investment, the best performing stock exchange in Asia and the progressive reduction of poverty, all Pakistanis, including Pashtuns, Sindhis and Baluchis, are much better placed to achieve their aspirations within Pakistan, as they decided in 1947 through an irrevocable act of self-determination.

The machinations of external powers and their hired guns will not succeed. Munir Akram, Permanent Representative, Pakistan Mission to the U.N. New York, Feb. 1, 2008

BENAZIR BHUTTO’S ASSASSINATION WAS PRE-PLANNED: THE ZIA MODEL WITH A TWIST:THE GREAT GAME CONTINUES: When the Elephants dance, the grass gets crushed. The continued CIA conspiracies in Pakistan. Another Pakistani leaders falls to an international game between the USA, China and Russia, and Pakistanis again pay the price.

Laser_weapon“Where there is smoke there is fire.” Pakistanis believe in the CIA-Benazir link. Conventional Wisdom is so strong in Pakistan on this subject that Mr. Zardari actually had to call a press conference and deny that America had any involvement in the assassination of Ms. Benazir Bhutto. His denial fueled the rumor mill even more. How could he know the for sure? Officials in the US Government already embroiled in the CIA scandal where some of the tapes of waterboarding were “accidentally erased, also denied any involvement in the Benazir assassination…a sure sign that something is up.

”The X-ray reports suggested that there were two to three tiny radio densities under each fractured segments on both projections which were in fact invisible electromagnetic radiations. After these medical reports there was no need for further post-mortem or exhumation,”Awan

Pakistan-China friendship mapCHINA JAN 23rd: “THE COVERT INTERFERENCE IN PAKISTAN HAS TO STOP”

No more turmoil in Pakistan is permissible (Peoples Dialy–Beijing China)“No more turmoil in Pakistan is permissible“.

No more turmoil in Pakistan is permissible (Peoples Dialy–Beijing China)“President Pervez Musharraf has resorted to a host of viable measures … Pakistani government has been making unremitting efforts in defense of the supreme national interests … Some opposition forces at home and a few powers overseas impose pressures or punitive measures against Pakistan in the name of ‘democracy’, ‘freedom’ and ‘opposition to terrorism’. So the nation is currently in very complex and stark circumstances and its government is confronted with unprecedented challenges.”

 No more turmoil in Pakistan is permissible (Peoples Dialy–Beijing China)“Thanks to the effective leadership of the Musharraf government along with joint efforts of people from all walks of life, Pakistan has on the one hand worked to coordinate with the struggle of the international community against terrorism. On the other hand, the nation has scored remarkable successes in socio-economic development, and also eased off its strained relations with its neighbor India.”  Peoples Daily China..reported by Mr. Bhadrakumar of Asia Times
 

JAN 23rd: IRAN WANTS CIA AND MOSSAD TO BACK OFF PAKISTAN:

“In the Iranian perception, after some dangerous brinkmanship in recent weeks, the US and Israel have somewhat backed off, but a systematic US attempt continues to undercut the Musharraf regime. In a recent commentary, the Tehran Times, which reflects official thinking, warned that Washington is using its “minions” in the region to weaken the authority of Musharraf’s government and to create tensions within Pakistan’s federal structure. It called on the Pakistani people to understand the “gravity of the situation” and to “confront the hidden hands” destabilizing their countryPeoples Daily China..reported by Mr. Bhadrakumar of Asia Times

A meeting between President Pervez Musharraf and the israeli foreign minister may have been on this matter.

THE COVERT US INTERVENTION IS CONFIRMED BY THE NY TIMES OF JAN 6th, 2008

“At the White House and the Pentagon, officials see an opportunity in the changing power structure for the Americans to advocate for the expanded authority in Pakistan, a nuclear-armed country. “After years of focusing on Afghanistan, we think the extremists now see a chance for the big prize – creating chaos in Pakistan itself,” one senior official said.

The new options for expanded covert operations include loosening restrictions on the C.I.A. to strike selected targets in Pakistan, in some cases using intelligence provided by Pakistani sources, officials said. Most counter-terrorism operations in Pakistan have been conducted by the C.I.A.; in Afghanistan, where military operations are under way, including some with NATO forces, the military can take the lead.

The legal status would not change if the administration decided to act more aggressively. However, if the C.I.A. were given broader authority, it could call for help from the military or deputize some forces of the Special Operations Command to act under the authority of the agency. NY Times Jan. 6th, 2007

 THE 4th BHUTTO ASSASSINATION IS A MESSAGE TO THE USA. Who did it? THE 4th BHUTTO ASSASSINATION IS A MESSAGE TO THE USA. Who did it?THE 4th BHUTTO ASSASSINATION IS A MESSAGE TO THE USA. Who did it?

CIA OPERATIONS IN PAKISTAN: THE CASE OF THE EXPLODING MANGOES

When the Elephants dance, the grass gets crushed. The continued CIA involvement in Pakistan. Another Pakistani leaders falls to an internation game betwen the USA, and China and Russia, and Paksitanis again pay the priceIn the 1980s, President Zia ul Haq was blown up in a military plane and Benazir Bhutto became the Prime Minister. However she was fired from her job for corruption.

ISLAMABAD: Was Benazir Bhutto’s assassination part of a larger international conspiracy to destabilise and de-nuclearise Pakistan? This is the question that boggles many minds even in the government circles.

Although, the government has fixed the responsibility on Baitullah Mehsud and al-Qaeda on the basis of a telephonic conversation reportedly monitored by intelligence agencies, some government officials really smell a rat.

“It is not important to see who is pulling the trigger, also don’t bother much about the hired assassin. What is really important is to reach the hand that pulled the strings,” an official source said, believing that foreign factor (not al-Qaeda) could not be ruled out in this high-profile assassination that has badly shaken Pakistan.

The Pakistan People’s Party and spokesmen of Baitullah Mehsud and al-Qaeda had already rejected the interior ministry’s assertion, which had been further contradicted by certain news reports that claimed that the slain leader was in contact with Mehsud.

A senior journalist, Hamid Mir, even confirmed this fact in his column in Jang that appeared on last Monday. He also revealed the startling fact he was told by Benazir Bhutto before her death that she was informed by the Americans that Washington did not want the restoration of deposed chief justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry.

PPP spokesman Farhatullah Babar, when contacted, although did not rule out international dimension to Benazir’s killing but he was more convinced that it was a heinous plot hatched inside Pakistan. Ansari Abbasi in The News

TRUST DEFICIT BETWEEN MUSHARRAF AND CIA CREATED BY THE NEOCONS AND INDIAN & ZARDARI LOBBYING FIRMS:

Mr. Husain Haqqani led the campagin against the Pakistani Army osetnsibly for the “restoration of democracy” but actually to get himself and Mr. Zardai in power. He launced a book and worked with the shadiest of Anti-Pakistan elements in the Washington: A rebuttal to Mr. Haqqani: US policy and Pakistan’s drift :

It is amazing what $50K can buy one in Washington. Ms. Bhutto has been spending that kind of money to get about a 100 “journalists” to  write anti-Musharraf and pro-Benazir articles in the media. The lobbying firms is continuing to provide services to the Zardaris now.

“Bhutto, retained public relations giant Burson-Marsteller and its affiliates, the lobbying firm BKSH & Associates, and the polling firm Penn, Schoen and Berland Associates. The firm declined comment on its activities, which it is charging an initial $75,000, to be followed with monthly payments of $28,500.

The contract filed with the Justice Department does, however, give some insight into what all of the money buys. Among the promised services: surveys of “100 American political, journalistic, and business elites in Washington, D.C., and New York”; an “internal brainstorming session”; and setting up meetings for Bhutto in Washington “with an eye towards convincing U.S. officials that Prime Minister Bhutto is still relevant to further the democratic process in Pakistan.”

Given a modicum of political will, Danger-I and II may still be manageable, however, Danger III to its territorial integrity in the Northeast may prove to be the most difficult. In fact the entire Northeast can easily be unhooked on multiple counts from the Union. First, these are low populated areas having contiguity with the most densely populated and demographically aggressive country in the world, i.e., Bangladesh. The country has also emerged as a major source of Islamic fundamentalism which impacts grievously on the Northeast. To add to these woes, New Delhi because of sheer vote-bank politics legitimized illegal migration for 22 years through the vehicle of IMDT. Many border districts now have a majority population constituting illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. In near future, this leverage will be used to create an internal upheaval against the Centre as in the case of the Valley. It’s a classic Islamic fundamentalist principle of asymmetric warfare. What cannot be achieved by conventional wars, can be done through infiltration and subsequently internal subversionIndia, meanwhile, has long been using the issue of religious extremism in Pakistan to gain leverage on the contentious issue of control of Kashmir, which has been a simmering conflict for decades. Among India’s lobbying firms is GOP powerhouse Barbour, Griffith and Rogers, which is being paid $58,333 a month, according to its 2005 Justice Department filing. The firm declined to comment. Pakistan’s lobbyists target Congress By: Patrick O’Connor and Samuel Loewenberg

The US Administration did not trust President Musharraf anymore. He was considered too independent and was considered conspiring for the return of the Taliban in Afghanistan. Several attempts were made to assassinate President Musharraf. Many analysts believe that the CIA looked up the right page from the playbook on foreign assassinations. President Karzai with Indian and American backing threatened Pakistan on many occasions with retaliation for the so called “cross-border” activity in Afghanistan. The CIA wanted to eliminate President Musharraf and then get a more amenable leader in office in Islamabad.

“Babar disclosed that the slain PPP chairperson had personally informed him of threats to her life at the hands of some influential elements within Pakistan.

“Sophistication of the operation carried out to assassinate the PPP chairperson is beyond the capability of criminal gangs,” Babar said.

“Meanwhile, a source who, too, had frank interaction with Benazir told this correspondent that she was aware of an international conspiracy to destabilise and de-nuclearise Pakistan. He said that many things that she used to say in public during the last few months of her life were far from her conviction.

She, the source said, had the realisation what was brewing in certain parts of Pakistan, particularly in the tribal belt could be properly addressed through dialogue and political means that she wanted to pursue once she got into the corridors of power.

However, contrary to these revelations about her real objectives, Benazir Bhutto’s return from self-exile was full of risks because of Washington’s overt support for her to be the next prime minister of Pakistan.

Despite strong anti-US feeling, the US authorities, including the State Department officials, issued repeated statements in her favour, knowing well that the post-9/11 policies had increased the anti-US feelings to an all-time high in the Muslim world, especially in Pakistan.

However, against the general perception, things were not smooth between Benazir Bhutto and Washington as has now been confirmed by veteran Washington Post journalist Robert D Novak, who wrote in the prestigious US newspaper on Monday that before her death Benazir Bhutto had distanced herself from a US-brokered power-sharing deal between her and President Musharraf.

Robert revealed that Ms Bhutto had sent a written complaint to a senior State Department official, saying her camp no longer viewed the backstage US move as a good faith effort towards democracy. The US paper also wrote that in return to her several pleas, seeking US assistance for better security, the US reaction was that she was worried over nothing, expressing assurance that President Musharraf would not let anything happen to her.

Lt-Gen (retd) Jamshed Gulzar Kayani, who was amongst those serving generals at the time who had voiced their opposition to the post-9/11 Islamabad’s war on terror policy, when contacted told this correspondent that Pakistan’s nuclear programme had been the main target of the world’s most influential capitals, who wanted to see this country unstable and chaotic so that they could get hold of our nuclear assets.

Kayani, who had the reputation of a professional soldier and had also served the ISI, besides holding key military positions, believes that Benazir’s killing was part of an international conspiracy executed with active connivance of local players to create such a situation in Pakistan that suits those hell-bent on de-nuclearising Pakistan.

A government official told this correspondent that there were many pointing fingers at someone sitting in Islamabad or the country’s indefinable establishment for the assassination of Benazir Bhutto. He believed that although only a fair, independent and thorough probe would possibly solve the riddle as to who was behind Benazir’s assassination, no one in the government could draw any benefit out of this horrendous act and the post-Benazir situation had proven that rulers were actually at the receiving end.

The source said though some local players might be involved in this, the mastermind seemed to be sitting in a distant foreign land. Ansar Abbasi, The News

The theory circulating in some of the most prestigious media sources goes as follows.

“For reasons not clear to our analysts yet, Islamabad has kept quiet on Washington’s involvement with anti-Pakistan elements in Afghanistan. But Pakistan did send an indirect public message to America recently.”  (Ahmed Quraishi is an investigative reporter, currently hosting a weekly political talk show titled Worldview from Islamabad.)

“Musharref seems to be laboring under the illusion that the United States government supports his efforts to contain the building political explosion, when, in fact, the explosion of Pakistan is what the Neocon traitors have been waiting for. With big “events” come big opportunities. Bush does not intend to do anything to help him stave off the inevitable. Their aim, all along, has been to plan for the day after the catastrophic event, for the day when their real plans could be fully implemented. The Pakistani leader let their ceaseless warnings about the day after move him into cooperating with them, in allowing the new expansion of the war into Pakistan. The actual neocon objective, according to Professor Michel Chossudovsky, is:

“…fomenting social, ethnic and factional divisions and political fragmentation, including the territorial breakup of Pakistan. This course of action is also dictated by US war plans in relation to both Afghanistan and Iran.

This US agenda for Pakistan is similar to that applied throughout the broader Middle East Central Asian region. US strategy, supported by covert intelligence operations, consists in triggering ethnic and religious strife, abetting and financing secessionist movements while also weakening the institutions of the central government.

The broader objective is to fracture the Nation State and redraw the borders of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Afghanistan and Pakistan.” globalresearch. A Grassy Knoll in Pakistan By Peter Chamberlin

ZARDARI CRIMINAL BACKGROUND:-He had the most to gain from death of Benazir Bhutto

Shehanshah, an American-Pakistani citizen and wanted in connection with several murder cases, became close to Zardari in the early 1990s.

“Asif [Zardari] was arrested for the first time in 1990,” a former friend of Shehanshah told Asia Times Online from the United States on condition of anonymity. (In 1990, Zardari was arrested on charges of blackmail, based on allegations that he attached a bomb to a Pakistani businessman, Murtaza Bukhari, and forced him to withdraw money from his bank account. However, the charges were dropped and he was released from prison in 1993 when his wife’s PPP took power.

Despite all this, Shehanshah remains Zardari’s chief security officer, which is what troubles many in the PPP. As opposed to his Oxford-educated wife, there are even questions about Zardari’s educational qualifications, which could prevent him from taking a seat in Parliament.

The 51-year-old Zardari has been quick to sideline Bhutto’s trusted aides in the PPP, including Makhdoom Amin Fahim, the party’s vice-chairman. (Shehzad Salim: Asia Times)

Certainly the American CIA, the Pakistani ISI, the India RAW, the Afghan “KHAD” and the Russian “KGB” do not know.ANTI-MUSHARRAF PLAN HATCHED WHEN MUSHARRAF WAS IN THE USA: While President Musharraf was visiting the USA, the American administration was conspiring to fire him and get a more docile and subservient leader in office in Islamabad. ANA (Indian group that disparages Pakistan) and other groups funded by various sources sprung into action. A media campaign was unleashed to discredit President Musharraf. The CIA was been pushing for regime change and considered the sycophantic, obsequies Benazir as the obvious choice. The Red Mosque issue was created with elements of the Baluchistan Liberation Army a relic of the Cold War and Afghan mercenaries.

“What General Musharraf didn’t know then is that he really was being cornered. Some of the smiles that greeted him in Washington and back home gave no hint of the betrayal that awaited him.

As he completed the remaining part of his US visit, his allies in Washington and elsewhere, as all evidence suggests now, were plotting his downfall. They had decided to take a page from the book of successful “color revolutions” where Western governments covertly used money, private media, student unions, NGOs and international pressure to stage coups, basically overthrowing individuals not fitting well with Washington’s agenda.

This recipe proved its success in former Yugoslavia, and more recently in Georgia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

In Pakistan, the target is a president who refuses to play ball with the US on Afghanistan, China and Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan.

To get rid of him, an impressive operation is underway:(Ahmed Quraishi is an investigative reporter, currently hosting a weekly political talk show titled Worldview from Islamabad.)

NEW NEGROPONTE  BASED STRATEGY  TO FIGHT GWOT PATTERNED ON TARGETED KILLINGS:

In the Pentagon’s newly expanded Special Operations office, Assistant Secretary of Defense Michael Vickers is working to implement the U.S. military’s highest-priority plan: a global campaign against terrorism that reaches far beyond Iraq and Afghanistan.

The plan details the targeting of al-Qaida-affiliated networks around the world and explores how the United States should retaliate in case of another major terrorist attack. The most critical aspect of the plan, Vickers said in a recent interview, involves U.S. Special Operations forces working through foreign partners to uproot and fight terrorist groups.

Vickers, a former Green Beret and CIA operative, was the principal strategist for the biggest covert program in CIA history: the paramilitary operation that drove the Soviet army out of Afghanistan in the 1980s… he directed an insurgent force of 150,000 Afghan fighters and controlled an annual budget of more than $2 billion in current dollars.

Today Vickers’ plan to build a global counter-terrorist network [to fight covert wars in 49 countries].”  Seattle Times: Key Pentagon strategist plots global war on terror,” (Dec. 30)

OLD CIA DIRTY TRICKS DEPT. & CIA DOLLARS CREATE DEMONSTRATIONS: Tons of money was sent to Pakistan for a well organized campaign to launch street demonstrations against President Musharraf.  Mr. Ahmed Quraishi has quoted $500 million in funds were disbursed. As in 1979, during the PNA demonstration millions of Dollars were dispersed among professional agitators. Uzbek and Tajiks were recruited to create mayhem in Pakistan.

  •  A shadowy group called the BLA, a Cold War relic, rose from the dead to restart a separatist war in southwestern Pakistan. . Bugti’s death was a blow to neo-BLA, but the shadowy group’s backers didn’t repent. His grandson, Brahmdagh Bugti, is currently enjoying a safe shelter in the Afghan capital, Kabul, where he continues to operate and remote-control his assets in Pakistan.
  • Saboteurs trained in Afghanistan have been inserted into Pakistan to aggravate extremist passions here, especially after the Red Mosque operation.
  • Chinese citizens continue to be targeted by individuals pretending to be Islamists, when no known Islamic group has claimed responsibility. . A succession of “religious rebels” with suspicious foreign links have suddenly emerged in Pakistan over the past months claiming to be “Pakistani Taliban”. Some of the names include Abdul Rashid Ghazi, Baitullah Mehsud, and now the Maulana of Swat. Some of them have used, and are using, encrypted communication equipment far superior to what the Pakistani military owns.
  • Money and weapons have been fed into the religious movements and al-Qaeda remnants in the tribal areas.
  • Like the proverbial Don Quixote, is Dr. Agha chasing the ephemiral Turkish armies disguised as windmills? Or is he like Sancho Panza, who doesn’t know where the knight is headed but follows him anyway. Does she have substanceLike the proverbial Don Quixote, is Dr. Agha chasing the ephemiral Turkish armies disguised as windmills? Or is he like Sancho Panza, who doesn’t know where the knight is headed but follows him anyway. Does she have substanceExploiting the situation, assets within the Pakistani media started promoting the idea that the Pakistani military was killing its own people. The rest of the unsuspecting media quickly picked up this message. Some botched US and Pakistani military operations against al-Qaeda that caused civilian deaths accidentally fed this media campaign.This was the perfect timing for the launch of Military, Inc: Inside Pakistan’s Military Economy, a book authored by Ayesha Siddiqa Agha, a columnist for a Pakistani English-language paper and a correspondent for “Jane’s Defence Weekly”, a private intelligence service founded by experts close to British intelligence. (Ahmed Quraishi is an investigative reporter, currently hosting a weekly political talk show titled Worldview from Islamabad.)

PAKISTAN IS FULLY AWARE OF THE INDIAN INTERFERENCE IN PAKISTAN WITH THE CIA:

The Train of Terror from Delhi, Dushambe to Dera Ghazi KhanMerecenaries from the Indian base of Dushambe in Tajiskistan move to the Indian Consultate or the Information Centers in Afghanistan and then inflitrate into PakistanThe Indian Military base in Tajikistan

Indian consulates are dens in inequityUzbeks bombed in Uzbekistan moved to Northern Afghanistan. Pressure there forced them to move to The Tribal Areas. Pakistani Army forced the Waziris to abandon them. The Uzbeks showed up on Swat and in the Red Mosque in IslamabadThe four Indian consulates in Afghanistan are disproportionate to the number needed for a a very small population. Compare to number of Indian consulates in the USA.

A senior Minister in the caretaker Cabinet hit out on Thursday against India for its alleged role in provoking unrest in Pakistan.in the Pakistani consulate, diplomats have a very different take on what the Indians are up to here, deep in Afghanistan’s Pushtun belt, which Pakistan considers its own backyard. They think the Indians are spying, stirring up ethnic trouble in Pakistan and generally undermining the security of its lightly defended western border.

At the end of 2002 India reopened four consulates in Afghanistan. Pakistan’s reaction to the Indians’ arrival in Jalalabad and Kandahar recalls that of America when Soviet “advisers” turned up in Cuba in 1961. 

Professor Michel Chossudovsky says the following:

The original pipeline from Iran to India was supposed to be an underwater pipeline that economically hooked up Iran to China. The Indian vision was to bypass Pakistan and build the Chahbahar base and then spread a network of railroads and roadways networks to Afghanistan, Central Asia and Russia. Iran was a key link in hooking up to longtime Indian ally Russia.Pakistan’s Oil and Gas reserves

Pakistan’s extensive oil and gas reserves, largely located in Balochistan province, as well as its pipeline corridors are considered strategic by the Anglo-American alliance, requiring the concurrent militarization of Pakistani territory.

Balochistan comprises more than 40 percent of Pakistan’s land mass, possesses important reserves of oil and natural gas as well as extensive mineral resources.

The Iran-India pipeline corridor is slated to transit through Balochistan. Balochistan also possesses a deap sea port largely financed by China located at Gwadar, on the Arabian Sea, not far from the Straits of Hormuz where 30 % of the world’s daily oil supply moves by ship or pipeline. (Asia News.it, 29 December 2007)

Pakistan has an estimated 25.1 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of proven gas reserves of which 19 trillion are located in Balochistan. Among foreign oil and gas contractors in Balochistan are BP, Italy’s ENI, Austria’s OMV, and Australia’s BHP. It is worth noting that Pakistan’s State oil and gas companies, including PPL which has the largest stake in the Sui oil fields of Balochistan are up for privatization under IMF-World Bank supervision.

According to the Oil and Gas Journal (OGJ), Pakistan had proven oil reserves of 300 million barrels, most of which are located in Balochistan. Other estimates place Balochistan oil reserves at an estimated six trillion barrels of oil reserves both on-shore and off-shore (Environment News Service, 27 October 2006) .

Covert Support to Balochistan Separatists

Balochistan’s strategic energy reserves have a bearing on the separatist agenda. Following a familiar pattern, there are indications that the Baloch insurgency is being supported and abetted by Britain and the US.

The Baloch national resistance movement dates back to the late 1940s, when Balochistan was invaded by Pakistan. In the current geopolitical context, the separatist movement is in the process of being hijacked by foreign powers.

British intelligence is allegedly providing covert support to Balochistan separatists (which from the outset have been repressed by Pakistan’s military). In June 2006, Pakistan’s Senate Committee on Defence accused British intelligence of “abetting the insurgency in the province bordering Iran” [Balochistan]..(Press Trust of India, 9 August 2006). Ten British MPs were involved in a closed door session of the Senate Committee on Defence regarding the alleged support of Britain’s Secret Service to Baloch separatists (Ibid). Also of relevance are reports of CIA and Mossad support to Baloch rebels in Iran and Southern Afghanistan.

It would appear that Britain and the US are supporting both sides. The US is providing American F-16 jets to the Pakistani military, which are being used to bomb Baloch villages in Balochistan. Meanwhile, British alleged covert support to the separatist movement (according to the Pakistani Senate Committee) contributes to weakening the central government.

The stated purpose of US counter-terrorism is to provide covert support as well as as training to “Liberation Armies” ultimately with a view to destabilizing sovereign governments. In Kosovo, the training of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) in the 1990s had been entrusted to a private mercenary company, Military Professional Resources Inc (MPRI), on contract to the Pentagon.

The BLA bears a canny resemblance to Kosovo’s KLA, which was financed by the drug trade and supported by the CIA and Germany’s Bundes Nachrichten Dienst (BND).

The BLA emerged shortly after the 1999 military coup. It has no tangible links to the Baloch resistance movement, which developed since the late 1940s. An aura of mystery surrounds the leadership of the BLA.

Baloch population in Pink: In Iran, Pakistan and Southern Afghanistan

Washington favors the creation of a “Greater Balochistan” which would integrate the Baloch areas of Pakistan with those of Iran and possibly the Southern tip of Afghanistan (See Map above), thereby leading to a process of political fracturing in both Iran and Pakistan.

“The US is using Balochi nationalism for staging an insurgency inside Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan province. The ‘war on terror’ in Afghanistan gives a useful political backdrop for the ascendancy of Balochi militancy” (See Global Research, 6 March 2007).

Military scholar Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Peters writing in the June 2006 issue of The Armed Forces Journal, suggests, in no uncertain terms that Pakistan should be broken up, leading to the formation of a separate country: “Greater Balochistan” or “Free Balochistan” (see Map below). The latter would incorporate the Pakistani and Iranian Baloch provinces into a single political entity.

In turn, according to Peters, Pakistan’s North West Frontier Province (NWFP) should be incorporated into Afghanistan “because of its linguistic and ethnic affinity”. This proposed fragmentation, which broadly reflects US foreign policy, would reduce Pakistani territory to approximately 50 percent of its present land area. (See map). Pakistan would also loose a large part of its coastline on the Arabian Sea.

Although the map does not officially reflect Pentagon doctrine, it has been used in a training program at NATO’s Defense College for senior military officers. This map, as well as other similar maps, have most probably been used at the National War Academy as well as in military planning circles. (See Mahdi D. Nazemroaya, Global Research, 18 November 2006)

“Lieutenant-Colonel Peters was last posted, before he retired to the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, within the U.S. Defence Department, and has been one of the Pentagon’s foremost authors with numerous essays on strategy for military journals and U.S. foreign policy.” (Ibid)

It is worth noting that secessionist tendencies are not limited to Balochistan. There are separatist groups in Sindh province, which are largely based on opposition to the Punjabi-dominated military regime of General Pervez Musharraf (For Further details see Selig Harrisson, Le Monde diplomatique, October 2006)

THE RALPH PETERS PLAN vs. THE PAKISTANI PLAN: Two visions…..

If the EU can come about through peace and economic progress so can the Muslim Union which is not a caliphate nor brought about by war, nor as a threat to anyone.

THE RALPH PETERS PLAN FOR THE GREATER MIDDLE EAST—All Muslim countries balkanizedMany believe that the USA will go to war to protect the war.Ralph Peters printed this in the DOD journals.It is quite possible that the pages were taken from a Soviet plan: Afghanistan’s Ordeal Puts a Region At Risk,” by James B. Curren and Phillip A. Karber (BDM Corporation, McLean, VA/a subsidiary of Ford), and published in U.S. Armed Forces Journal International, (pages 78-105) March 1985 (Source: Mr. Bashir A. Syed is a retired American Aerospace Physicist of Pakistani descent and a member of several eminent professional associations including the New York Academy of Sciences. ahmadquraishi.com)

The Pakistani plan

Pakistani flagPakistanNATO can be sent on extended leave. All Pashtun areas have to be securedExtending the boundaries from the Indus to the Amu Darya will bring peace to South AsiaPakistan is envisioned as such

Weakening Pakistan’s Central GovernmentTHE IMF MANDATED ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING IS POISON FOR PAKISTAN

Weakening Pakistan’s Central Government“Strong Economic Medicine”: Weakening Pakistan’s Central Government

Pakistan has a federal structure based on federal provincial transfers. Under a federal fiscal structure, the central government transfers financial resources to the provinces, with a view to supporting provincial based programs. When these transfers are frozen as occurred in Yugoslavia in January 1990, on orders of the IMF, the federal fiscal structure collapses:

“State revenues that should have gone as transfer payments to the republics [of the Yugoslav federation] went instead to service Belgrade’s debt … . The republics were largely left to their own devices. … The budget cuts requiring the redirection of federal revenues towards debt servicing, were conducive to the suspension of transfer payments by Belgrade to the governments of the Republics and Autonomous Provinces.

In one fell swoop, the reformers had engineered the final collapse of Yugoslavia’s federal fiscal structure and mortally wounded its federal political institutions. By cutting the financial arteries between Belgrade and the republics, the reforms fueled secessionist tendencies that fed on economic factors as well as ethnic divisions, virtually ensuring the de facto secession of the republics. (Michel Chossudovsky, The Globalization of Poverty and the New World Order, Second Edition, Global Research, Montreal, 2003, Chapter 17.)

It is by no means accidental that the 2005 National Intelligence Council- CIA report had predicted a “Yugoslav-like fate” for Pakistan pointing to the impacts of “economic mismanagement” as one of the causes of political break-up and balkanization.

“Economic mismanagement” is a term used by the Washington based international financial institutions to describe the chaos which results from not fully abiding by the IMF’s Structural Adjustment Program. In actual fact, the “economic mismanagement” and chaos is the outcome of IMF-World Bank prescriptions, which invariably trigger hyperinflation and precipitate indebted countries into extreme poverty.

Pakistan has been subjected to the same deadly IMF “economic medicine” as Yugoslavia: In 1999, in the immediate wake of the coup d’Etat which brought General Pervez Musharaf to the helm of the military government, an IMF economic package, which included currency devaluation and drastic austerity measures, was imposed on Pakistan. Pakistan’s external debt is of the order of US$40 billion. The IMF’s “debt reduction” under the package was conditional upon the sell-off to foreign capital of the most profitable State owned enterprises (including the oil and gas facilities in Balochistan) at rockbottom prices .

There are obvious similarities in the nature of US covert intelligence operations applied in country after country in different parts of the so-called “developing World”. These covert operation, including the organisation of military coups, are often synchronized with the imposition of IMF-World Bank macro-economic reforms. In this regard, Yugoslavia’s federal fiscal structure collapsed in 1990 leading to mass poverty and heightened ethnic and social divisions. The US and NATO sponsored “civil war” launched in mid-1991 consisted in coveting Islamic groups as well as channeling covert support to separatist paramilitary armies in Bosnia, Kosovo and Macedonia.

A similar “civil war” scenario has been envisaged for Pakistan by the National Intelligence Council and the CIA: From the point of view of US intelligence, which has a longstanding experience in abetting separatist “liberation armies”, “Greater Albania” is to Kosovo what “Greater Balochistan” is to Pakistan’s Southeastern Balochistan province. Similarly, the KLA is Washington’s chosen model, to be replicated in Balochistan province. (Michel Chossudovsky is the author of the international bestseller America’s “War on Terrorism” Global Research, 2005. He is Professor of Economics at the University of Ottawa and Director of the Center for Research on Globalization)

India. Indians drink cow urine which they call gaumutra. It is interesting to see the “finer things” of India. Stuff that you don’t see in Bollywood movies, and India’s Marketing Inc. Apprently cow urine is sold in bottles and in tablet and cream form in India. The internet is full of websites on the so called advantaes of drinking cow urine. One website called a cow, “a walking pharmacy”. Some sell it as “steralized and completely fresh”Iqbals visionA LONG HISTORY OF INDIAN AND CIA INTERFERENCE IN PAKISTANI AFFAIRS:  In 1970 Indian RAW s dirty tricks department hijacked an India plane to Islamabad in the name of “Kashmiri Freedom Fighters“. Using this as in excuse, Indians stopped all commercial air traffic between East and West Pakistan.The same year the “Mukti Bahni” was formed and a wedge inserted between the two wings. Pakistanis bungled.India then “Liberated” Bangladesh and cut down Pakistan into two. Are the current earthquakes a prelude to a tsunami that is to follow? This much is certain, India with Karzai and the Americans is playing a dirty game in Paksitan.

“We have indications of Indian involvement with anti-state elements in Pakistan,” declared the spokesman of the Pakistan Foreign Office in a regular briefing in October. The statement was terse and direct, and the spokesman, Tasnim Aslam, quickly moved on to other issues.

This is how a Pakistani official explained Aslam’s statement: “What she was really saying is this: We know what the Indians are doing. They’ve sold the Americans on the idea that [the Indians] are an authority on Pakistan and can be helpful in Afghanistan. The Americans have bought the idea and are in on the plan, giving the Indians a free hand in Afghanistan. What the Americans don’t know is that we, too, know the Indians very well. Better still, we know Afghanistan very well. You can’t beat us at our own game.”

Bugti’s armed rebellion coincided with the Gwadar project entering its final stages. No coincidence here. Bugti’s real job was to scare the Chinese away and scuttle Chinese President Hu Jintao’s planned visit to Gwadar a few months later to formally launch the port city.

Gwadar is the pinnacle of Sino-Pakistani strategic cooperation. It’s a modern city that is supposed to link Pakistan, Central Asia, western China with markets in Mideast and Africa. It’s supposed to have roads stretching all the way to China. It’s no coincidence that that country has also earmarked millions of dollars to renovate the Karakoram Highway linking northern Pakistan to western China.

Some reports in the US media, however, have accused Pakistan and China of building a naval base in the guise of a commercial seaport directly overlooking international oil-shipping lanes.

The Indians and some other regional actors are also not comfortable with this project because they see it as commercial competition.

What Bugti’s regional and international supporters never expected is Pakistan moving firmly and strongly to nip his rebellion in the bud. Even Bugti himself probably never expected the Pakistani state to react in the way it did to his betrayal of the homeland. He was killed in a military operation where scores of his mercenaries surrendered to Pakistan army soldiers.

United States intelligence and their Indian advisors could not cultivate an immediate replacement for Bugti. So they moved to Plan B. They supported Abdullah Mehsud, a Pakistani Taliban fighter held for five years in Guantanamo Bay, and then handed him over back to the Afghan government, only to return to his homeland, Pakistan, to kidnap two Chinese engineers working in Balochistan, one of whom was eventually killed during a rescue operation by the Pakistani government.

Islamabad could not tolerate this shadowy figure, who was creating a following among ordinary Pakistanis masquerading as a Taliban while in reality towing a vague agenda. He was eliminated earlier this year by Pakistani security forces while secretly returning from Afghanistan after meeting his handlers there. Again, no surprises here.

This is where Pakistani political and military officials finally started smelling a rat. All of this was an indication of a bigger problem. There were growing indications that, ever since Islamabad joined Washington’s regional plans, Pakistan was gradually turning into a “besieged-nation”, heavily targeted by the US media while being subjected to strategic sabotage and espionage from Afghanistan.Afghanistan, under America’s watch, has turned into a vast staging ground for sophisticated psychological and military operations to destabilize neighbouring Pakistan.

During the past three years, the heat has gradually been turned up against Pakistan and its military along Pakistan’s western regions:(Ahmed Quraishi is an investigative reporter, currently hosting a weekly political talk show titled Worldview from Islamabad.)

The CIA planned to send Benazir Bhutto to Pakistan and then assassinate her.  President Karzai the former representative of Conoco would be the point man in Pakistan. Mr. Karzai would visit Pakistan to ensure that all plans were being executed properly.

“This assassination was fabricated by the present government” .”It is part of the American strategy to scare people that Pakistan is falling apart.”says Liaqat Baloch, a senior official in Jamaat-e-Islami, one of Pakistan’s main Islamic parties. 

“America is partly responsible for its current predicament.” “If America continues to act selfishly and unwisely, well, there is hardly any good that has come out [of their help] either for the U.S. or Pakistan, and this will continue.”Retd. General Hamid Gul

“People are afraid to air their opinions but as far as I know America sent Benazir and later killed her with the help of Pervez Musharraf,” says M.A. Mohamed, who runs a car parts company. “I can confirm this idea.” Time Magazine

“Eyewitnesses claim having heard three bullets being fired but if one or more AK-47s were in use, it is likely that many more were actually fired. While it is assumed that the same individual who fired upon her blew himself up a few seconds later, it is possible, even likely, that more than one individual were involved.

Since the attempt on her life was contingent upon her exposing herself through the sun roof, and it could be safely assumed that she would do so in response to an upsurge in the crowd’s welcome or farewell to her, it is entirely possible that a certain segment of the crowd was placed at the exit to Liaquat Bagh with instructions to chant slogans to a crescendo at a time when the assassin(s) was in position, to which she would inevitably respond by exposing herself, thus offering the assassin(s) an opportunity to target her.

It is incomprehensible that so many analysts have begun to bay for blood and have called upon the government to identify those responsible. Brig. Shaukat Aziz Daily Times December 29th, 2007

Geo NewsAMERICAN MEDIA WITH GEO AND ARY UNLEASHES ANTI-MUSHARRAF CAMPAIGN ON CUE:The media would then be unleashed about the so called “instability” in Pakistan creating a justification for continued and more abrasive offensive action in South Asia. This to create instability in Pakistan that will be used as an excuse to continue the perpetual mimetic warfare in the Muslim world. Pakistan has been facing the brunt of the US initiative to implement “Democracy” in Pakistan even though the credentials of the champions of democracy are very weak. Neither Egypt, nor Uganda, nor Congo, nor Haiti, nor Taiwan, nor China nor Israel nor Russia face the US medias pontification on how great democracy is. An expose of Geo origins has been posted on this site.

“There is a hidden hand in this” Sher Bukhsh Mazari

BHUTTOS JINXED LIKE NEHRUS IN INDIA AND KENNEDYS IN USA: Like the Kennedy’s in America, and the Nehrus in India, the Bhutto’s have a propensity to get in front of the murderers. Like the Kennedys more than three of the Bhuttos have died an unceremonious death. Like the Nehrus in India more than 3 of them have been murdered. The Bhuttos are one of Pakistan’s most illustrious families. Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto was the father of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. His claim to fame was to create the province of Sindh, separating it from the Bombay presidency. This is a list of the Bhutto family.

  • Zulfiqar.Ali. Bhutto; Judicial murder by US supported General Zia
  • Shahnawaz Bhutto junior. Poisoned in drug overdose in France during Zia’s tenure
  • Murtaza Bhutto: shot dead in Karachi during the tenure of Benazir Bhutto
  • Benazir Bhutto: Shot dead on December 27th, 2007 during the reign of President Musharraf.

Ominously, Benazir Bhutto was assassinated at the same spot where the first Pakistani Prime-Minister Liaqat Ali Khan was shot dead.

The assassination or the death of an American leader is a sad affair. Strangely enough the assassination of a Pakistani leader in most American minds spells “instability”.

APPENDIX A: INTERNAL FACTORS

One year on, Benazir’s murder is still a mystery, but not so much

Saturday, December 27, 2008: By Shakeel Anjum

 

ISLAMABAD: The chances of charismatic former prime minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination remaining unresolved, like other high-profile murder cases in the country’s chequered history, may appear to be high but the investigators probing the case seem to have untangled the mystery and the progress being made may still take them to some conclusive outcome.

People privy to the proceedings and progress in the investigations confided to The News that unravelling of the mystery shrouding the shocking crime could lead to startling revelations, if ever made public, with serious political implications.

“Some of the leads that we have obtained from the entangled evidence, both physical as well as circumstantial, guide us to certain personalities but any disclosures at this stage might cause extremely serious repercussions,” one member of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) told The News.

“There is no doubt that we are in possession of highly sensitive information that our investigations have led us to and we have reason to believe that any premature exposure of this information would open up a Pandora’s Box that would be difficult to handle. We don’t want to take a bite that we may find difficult to chew at the end.

“So, we have to be patient for a while before making any conclusive assertions.

However, I would say that there have been stages in the course of the investigation, where we felt it was almost impossible to proceed any further,” the source told The News on condition of anonymity.

Certain points have already been widely discussed in the public, and one of these is the ‘elimination’ of two very important persons whose statements would have been extremely useful for the investigators.

One is the death of Ms Nahid Bhutto, a cousin of the late Benazir Bhutto, in a road accident near Hyderabad on her way

to Karachi from Naudero, less than a week after the tragic assassination of the then-PPP chairperson.

Insiders claim while cousin Nahid Bhutto was busy talking to somebody in Australia over telephone from the Naudero house in Larkana after the burial of Benazir Bhutto, she is believed to have touched upon something sensitive, overheard by somebody present there but without her knowledge.

As soon as she realised the presence of the other person, Ms Nahid quickly wrapped up her conversation, saying she would discuss the matter on her arrival in Karachi the next day. She never arrived as intended.

She was killed in a road accident near Hyderabad while going to Karachi! Who was the person present in the room from where Ms Nahid was making the phone call is an important question for the investigators. Sources claimed the suspects were too powerful to be made part of the investigations. So, there is a stumbling block being confronted by the investigators, at this point at least.

A second hurdle to the probe is the assassination of Khalid Shehanshah, the personal bodyguard of Ms Bhutto and a key eyewitness to the tragedy. Circles close to Ms Bhutto insist Khalid Shehanshah, who had deep connections with the underworld, was ‘specially deputed’ as personal bodyguard of Ms Bhutto when she decided to return to the country from her prolonged self-exile on Oct 18, 2007.

He stayed close to Bhutto wherever she went after her return and was always in the back of the vehicle that Ms Bhutto rode during her election campaign. It will be instructive to recall that his behaviour on the stage the day Ms Bhutto delivered her last speech at Liaquat Bagh had been questioned but the issue was tactfully hushed up.

The investigators believe that he was in the know of important facts concerning the assassination of the 54-year-old leader. His murder was part of a larger scheme to silence anybody who could become a source of vital information that would help resolve the mystery shrouding the assassination.

Another very interesting aspect that surfaced during the investigations by The News was the late-night meeting of the head of an intelligence agency with Ms Bhutto. Reliable sources said the gentleman came to meet Ms Bhutto at around 1:30 am on the night of Dec 26 (early hours of Dec 27) and went straight into the meeting, also attended by Rehman Malik, then security adviser to the former premier.

One source privy to the discussions claimed the spy chief categorically told Ms Bhutto not to go to Liaquat Bagh to address the rally. He said credible information had been received that there would be an assassination attempt on her life during the public meeting.

“Benazir was caught in two minds for some moments but Rehman Malik forcefully refused to take that advice. He (Rehman Malik) told the gentleman: Benazir cannot sit in confinement. She is a leader and she has to address tomorrow’s rally because that is very important,” the source said. And then the intelligence boss left.

When asked whether the then-ISI chief, Lt-Gen Nadeem Taj, met Benazir on the eve of the tragedy (in fact in the wee hours of Dec 27 at around 1:30 am) and told her about the threat to her life and advised her not to attend the rally, Adviser on Interior Rehman Malik, who was operating as the chief security adviser of Benazir as she was travelling all over the country in connection with her party’s election campaign, told The News that the meeting did take place. “Yes. The meeting did take place. I was part of the meeting. The discussion remained confined to political matters. The issue of any life threat to Benazir or concerns about her security during the next morning’s public rally (in Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi) did not figure in the meeting,” Rehman Malik asserted.

After the rally was over and Bhutto boarded her vehicle, she asked Makhdoom Amin Fahim, who always sat on the right-hand side of the PPP chairperson, to exchange seats with her political secretary Naheed Khan. Amin Fahim obliged without uttering a word.

Immediately, after taking her seat in the vehicle, a Toyota Land Cruiser jeep provided by a very influential property developer of the country, Ms Bhutto asked Naheed Khan to contact Nawaz Sharif, as she came to know about an attack on his rally on the Islamabad Highway. Some people were reportedly killed in the assault. While Naheed Khan was dialling Sharif’s number on her cell phone, a crowd came in front of the vehicle and prevented it from moving any further.

By the time Naheed Khan had almost dialled Sharif’s number and was waiting for the call to be connected on her Blackberry cell phone, Ms Bhutto placed her palm on the telephone and told her to call him later. Then she emerged from the sunroof of the jeep to wave to the cheering crowd.

She had hardly started waving when the assassin fired at her at least three times. Evidently, two bullets hit her on the side of her head, slightly above temple. As she slumped back inside the vehicle and as soon as she hit the seat, a suicide bomber blew himself up. Collapsing inside the vehicle, she fell in the lap of Ms Naheed Khan, away from Makhdoom Amin Fahim, who was sitting on her left.

Sources informed The News that Dr Safdar Abbasi, sitting on the backseat of the vehicle, immediately checked Bhutto’s pulse, as she lay motionless in the lap of Naheed Khan. He was horrified because there was no sign of life. He knew she had died instantly, before falling in the lap of Naheed Khan. However, to prevent panic, he told Naheed Khan to press the wound hard to prevent loss of blood. The fellow knew fully well his leader had already been dead.

Another intriguing factor was the early departure of the vehicle used by Rehman Malik, Senator Babar Awan and Farhatullah Babar along with a couple of bodyguards. In the past, this vehicle had always tailed Benazir’s car, never leaving enough space that might allow another vehicle to come between them. But on that particular day, they abandoned Benazir and dashed towards Islamabad. Even when they were informed of the blast (suicide attack), Rehman Malik told the driver to keep driving towards F-8, informing the other occupants that Benazir was OK and that she was following in her vehicle.

It was only after reaching the Zardari House in F-8 that Babar Awan and Farhatullah Babar came to know of the real situation and returned to the central hospital. But Rehman Malik stayed back at the Zardari House.

When asked why he did not go straight to the Rawalpindi General Hospital and instead rushed towards the Zardari House in Islamabad, Rehman Malik claimed that he did go to the hospital first.

“When I reached the hospital, I saw people crying. I saw Naheed Khan in the arms of another lady, crying her heart out. I could not take any more and returned to Islamabad,” Rehman Malik said.

Surprisingly enough, when the numbing tragedy happened, there was no other vehicle either in front of Benazir’s jeep or behind it! The vehicle that was supposed to follow Benazir’s jeep had already abandoned her. There was no police escort in front of Benazir’s vehicle to clear the way, something that enabled the people to come in front of the vehicle, forcing the driver to stop.

The driver of Benazir’s vehicle – though panic-stricken – kept his senses under control and continued to drive the badly-damaged vehicle. However, after about a kilometre’s drive, near the entrance to the Committee Chowk underpass, they found Sherry Rehman’s vehicle parked on the kerb, with only the driver behind the wheel, waiting for other occupants. They quickly shifted the injured, or by then dead, Benazir in that vehicle to the General Hospital.

Meanwhile, three VVIP women of the party were seen madly running towards the Rawalpindi Press Club, carrying their sandals in hands in a bid to escape from the scene. One of them later turned up at the General Hospital, looking shocked and dazed and mourning the death of her leader.

Another intriguing aspect was that the Rawalpindi police neither held any meeting to review the law and order situation nor made necessary security arrangements for the important event, which took place soon after a bomb exploded outside the venue of a public meeting addressed by Ms Bhutto in Peshawar. The police also had information regarding threats to the life of the PPP leader.

Even more interesting was the fact that nobody has so far bothered to ask the senior superintendent of police (operations) as to why he was in a hurry mopping up the assassination scene, or who ordered the action while the site should have been cordoned off to facilitate the investigators looking for clues – a routine exercise after any murder, more so after such an enormous and historic killing.

All said and done, last year’s slaying of the two-time prime minister remains an unsolved mystery. Although, her party leaders and security officials have been harping on their seriousness about resolving the whodunit, a UN probe into her killing is yet to be initiated. With the scene of murder hosed down in no time, one wonders what a United Nations team would accomplish after all these months of efforts to unmask the assailants.

Along with Makhdoom Amin Fahim and Naheed Khan, Khalid Shehanshah was also present in the vehicle of Benazir Bhutto, assassinated right in front of Liaquat Bagh. In charge of her security, Shehanshah was one of the closest aides to Benazir Bhutto. After her murder, he was tasked with the security of Bilawal House. He also fell to the bullets of unidentified assailants on his way home from Bilawal House.

What exactly he knew and why he was eliminated are the questions agitating the minds of people. Some are trying to divert attention from his killing by saying he had connections with the underworld dons, who might have orchestrated his murder. But how could the dons accomplish such a folly when Shehanshah was the security officer of the country’s most powerful person?

Background interviews with knowledgeable quarters and investigation by The News reveal various mind-boggling things that followed soon after a jubilant Benazir came out of Liaquat Bagh at the conclusion of what was widely billed as a successful election rally. She was palpably overjoyed, glowing in the success of the rally. All the way to her ‘bomb-proof vehicle’, she wore a broad smile while waving to the cheering and slogan-chanting supporters.

She embarked the vehicle and for some reason after asking Naheed Khan and Makhdoom Amin Fahim to exchange seats, sat in the middle. Khalid Shehanshah and Nasir took the rear seat while Safdar Abbasi sat opposite to them.

For unknown reasons, the vehicle took a U-turn on the College Road to head back towards the Murree Road instead of plying the route chosen for her return to Islamabad. According to the security plan already finalised, Benazir’s convoy was scheduled to return from the other way – first heading to Raja Bazaar and then taking the alternative route.

When asked why Benazir’s vehicle turned right instead of turning left, towards Gawalmandi, in accordance with the actual security plan, Rehman Malik said it was not in his knowledge why Benazir’s vehicle turned right instead of following the original security plan.

Rehman Malik said his vehicle was ahead of Benazir’s vehicle and further ahead was a police escort van.

Who changed the route and why the vehicle was returned to the Murree Road against the security plan remains a big question mark.

It remains unclear who were the people blocking the way of her vehicle. Equally perplexing is the question: where were the security people supposed to keep the passage of Benazir’s entourage clear for safe and speedy exit from the venue?

Then she handed over the portable microphone, asked Safdar Abbasi to shout ‘Jeay Bhutto’ and joined in raising the slogans while waving to the crowd. And that was precisely when the gunman pulled the trigger. Three shots were fired at her. One reportedly hit her in the temple and she slumped back on the seat, believed to be dead before she fell. She was in the middle of crying ‘Jeay Bhutto’ when hit by the bullet, a popular slogan that would be registered as her last words.

The gunshots were followed by a huge explosion, allegedly a suicide attack. Later, inquiries led many people and investigators to believe the bomb was exploded only to cover up the fact that she was killed by gunshots. According to sources, little attention was paid in the inquiries to ensuring serious effort at identifying the person who pulled out the gun and shot thrice at Benazir from such close range. How he managed to take such a precise aim while there was a huge crowd around the vehicle and one could hardly hold one’s ground, with people pushing and jostling in a mad rush, is mind-boggling.

There was hardly any query asked whether the assassin was also killed or he managed to escape.

No one knows who ordered the mopping up of the scene. Who were the police high-ups who issued the orders to wash up the crime scene but were never included in the investigations?

The Joint Investigation Team (JIT), constituted by the government to probe the incident, hurriedly came out with the conclusion that Benazir had died after her head hit the protruding lever of the roof that broke her skull. The JIT spent all its energies on proving this particular point, which was also announced by the director-general of the National Crisis Management Cell (NCMC) Brig (retd) Javed Iqbal Cheema at a press conference.

But another government agency investigating the assassination later insisted the earlier ‘conclusion’ was not correct as it proved the wound in Benazir’s head was almost 5mm deep and two centimetres in width – deep enough to crack open her brain membrane, as a result of which, part of her brain oozed out of the wound.

“All this evidence leads us to believe that she was hit slightly above her temple by a bullet, which ricocheted but did the fatal damage to her skull. The skull on the left side was crushed by the impact of the bullet and the depression was deep enough to damage the protective membrane of the brain. It is a proven fact that such damage needs an impact of at least 50 Newton force. A knock by the protruding sunroof lever could not cause that sort of damage to her skull. So, we have reason to conclude that it was one of the three bullets fired by the assassin that hit Benazir and killed her instantly,” a source privy to the investigations told The News.

However, the elements that wanted to hide the facts, instead of paying attention to the report of the country’s own investigation agency, called in the Scotland Yard police which could find nothing new and had to vet the earlier report submitted by the JIT. Surprisingly, nobody raised the basic questions as to who ordered cleaning of the crime scene.

By the same token, nobody asked why the original route plan was changed at the eleventh hour and the vehicle carrying Benazir was diverted towards the Murree Road. Also unasked is the query why there was no official security vehicle in front of and behind the jeep carrying her after the rally was over.

Now that the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) is in power, it is intriguing why the government has not made any effort to reinvestigate the case. The government did promise that a UN probe into Benazir’s death would be initiated, but there has since been complete silence on the part of the PPP government, baffling many.

This scribe contacted a number of individuals engaged at different levels of investigations into the case, and some of whom are still quietly working on it. They said the case could be resolved “only if there is a sincere will to resolve it and if there is a resolve to catch the culprits behind the most unfortunate assassination in the country’s history,” one of them remarked.

“There is enough proof which points towards those who had played a key role in the whole plot that culminated in her assassination. But nobody can dare make any demand to unveil the elements because all these players are holding powerful positions,” they confided.

“There is ample evidence available that could lead the investigators to the mastermind behind the plot. The evidence is scattered in bits and pieces but not hidden. What is required is only to collect these scattered pieces of the puzzle and put them together and that would easily complete the picture, exposing all those involved in this conspiracy, not only against a person, but against the nation,” they said.

“However, we have to bear in mind that the forces who want to keep the facts under wraps would never allow any such move. The assassination of one of the major players involved in the whole conspiracy in Karachi some time back has effectively sent out a strong warning to others and none would be willing to reveal the facts. At least, not for the time being,” they continued.

Today, it is exactly one year that the ‘Daughter of the East’ and the most popular leader of the country was assassinated. Today, the party of the late Benazir is in power. And yet, her assassination remains a mystery! The time to unravel the mystery will, however, come sooner than later and then we will know who killed the only hope the country had.

APPENDIX B: EXTERNAL FACTORS

 

A Historical sojourn….

THE CIA INTERFERENCE IN PAKISTAN BEGAN IN THE 50s. ASSASSINATION OF DEMOCRACY IN RAWALPINDI

One almost never hears about the culprits in the assassination of Khan Liaqat Ali Khan…. the first victim of our nascent nation. After his death democracy was forced to fail and dictators ruled the Pakistani landscape.Ayub KhanThe independent minded founding father of Pakistan Mr. Liaqat Ali Khan was killed in broad daylight in Rawalpindi. Soon thereafter a pro-American President Ayub Khan took over the government and Pakistan became a vassal state of the USA—An instrument to be used agasint the USSR and then once the USSR was destroyed, Pakistan was discarded. This is what Zeba Zubair in “Mutiny to Mountbatten” says about the assassination:

 “On 16 October 1951 at a Public Meeting in Rawalpindi, ‘a blind shot from the blue’ silenced the voice of Quaid-e-Millat, Nawabzadah Liaqat Ali Khan. Another epoch of history was at an end. On a sad day for this new nation it was as if a mighty powe in heaven was also reacting in anger at the cowardly act of mankind. The sky of Karachi had a peculiar and ominous orange-yellow colouring and the people felt resltell at the starnge weather…” 

This is what the Daily dawn of October 17th, 1951 said:

 ‘With the kalima on his lips, Liaqat , Successor of the Quaid-e-Azam Prime Minister. Leader unparalleled, is dead. The man who killed him was not just an individual he was the symbol of that deadly enmity of the enemies of Islam who have always wanted to destroy Pakistan. We name only one but we feel this in our heart with the certain flash and convinced truth. We grieve for Liaqat–martyr to Pakistan and Islam; but we proclaim over Liaqat’s still unburied body: Pakistan shall live, and whoever of her servants may fall in her service, this citadel of Islam guarded by 70 million worshippers of Allah will never fall. Begum Liaqat, Ashraf and Akbar, we shall not try to console you in your grief in consolable, but know this, that you beloved husband and father had died in glory and as comes only to the chosen of God. Pakistan Zindabad (Dawn Editorial, 17 October, 1951)” 

One almost never hears about the culprits in the assassination of Khan Liaqat Ali Khan…. the first victim of our nascent nation. After his death democracy was forced to fail and dictators ruled the Pakistani landscape.Even in his last moments Liaqat was thinking of his nation. Other then remembering God and reciting the kalima, his last words were “Allah Pakistan ko apni amaan mai~n rakhay “(God save Pakistan). Every Pakistani of that generation absolutely remembers where he was and what he was doing when that fatal shot was announced on Radio Pakistan. Every patriotic Pakistani cried that day.

We reproduce amazing recently declassified telegrams from US archives. What is fascinating about these telegrams is not the publicaiton of one article but the huge panic that publication caused in the US State Department. The flurry of telegarms that went back and forth point to “darhi main tinka” (something is amiss). (http://www.icdc.com/~paulwolf/pakistan/pakintrigue.htm#liaquat). We are reproducing the page in its entireity as Appendix “A”, in case the original ICDS web site goes down or something.

One almost never hears about the culprits in the assassination of Khan Liaqat Ali Khan…. the first victim of our nascent nation. After his death democracy was forced to fail and dictators ruled the Pakistani landscape.Under headline reading “Is Liaquat Ali Khan’s assassination result of a deep-laid American conspiracy?”, leftist Urdu daily Bhopal named Nadeem published article October 24 charging US with responsibility. Summary article follows:

[...]It was learned within Pakistani Foreign Office that while UK pressing Pakistan for support re Iran, US demanded Pakistan exploit influence with Iran and support Iran transfer oil fields to US. Liaquat declined request. US threatened annul secret pact re Kashmir. Liaquat replied Pakistan had annexed half Kashmir without American support and would be able to take other half. Liaquat also asked US evacuate air bases under pact. Liaquat demand was bombshell in Washington. American rulers who had been dreaming conquering Soviet Russia from Pakistan air bases were flabbergasted. American minds set thinking re plot assassinate Liaquat. US wanted Muslim assassin to obviate international complications. US could not find traitor in Pakistan as had been managed Iran, Iraq, Jordan. Washington rulers sounded US Embassy Kabul. American Embassy contacted Pashtoonistan leaders, observing Liaquat their only hurdle; assured them if some of them could kill Liaquat, US would undertake establish Pashtoonistan by 1952. Pashtoon leaders induced Akbar undertake job and also made arrangements kill him to conceal conspiracy. USG-Liaquat differences recently revealed by Graham report to SC; Graham had suddenly opposed Pakistan although he had never given such indication. [...] Cartridges recovered from Liaquat body were American-made, especially for use high-ranking American officers, usually not available in market. All these factors prove real culprit behind assassin is US Government, which committed similar acts in mid-East. “Snakes” of Washington’s dollar imperialism adopted these mean tactics long time ago. Confidential Telegram No. 1532 from New Delhi Embassy, Oct. 30, 1951   

 

 

 

 

Since article apparently not rpt not widely circulated, Department believes preferable not rpt not issue public denial. In its discretion, however, Embassy might informally mention case MEA with comment story so preposterous no rpt no public denial intended. Would be interesting to know whether this story of character which led adoption recent press law. Ownership management NADEEM should be discreetly be investigated. Confidential Telegram from State Dept., Nov. 1, 1951

Soviet Press today carried Prague Despatch reporting Rude Pravo article based Afghan press agency “Bahtar” information re assassination Liaquat Ali. Despatch states after escaping Afghanistan due murders and other crimes “Said Akbar ran to India and there under protection British authorities which gave him refuge in Abbotabad and provided him money. After partition India Akbar remained in Pakistan where he continued make use protection of certain British circles.” “These facts adduced by Afghan press supporting position that murder Liaquat Ali was result intrigue of imperialists in Asian countries.” Secret Telegram from Moscow Embassy, Nov. 3, 1951 [only first page located]

The Embassy questions the premise stated in the first sentence of the Airgram under reference (“Lack of spontaneous anti-Indian and anti-Afghan popular outburst over both July war scare and Liaquat’s assassination suggests feeling on Kashmir and Afghan disputes mostly government inspired.”) … The anti-Afghan agigation that spontaneously sprang up on October 16-17 was effectively stopped by the GOP’s prompt exercise of its official and unofficial powers of censorship over the press, even to the extent of preventing reference after October 17 to the assassin’s Afghan origin. Popular Feeling in Pakistan on Kashmir and Afghan Issues, Nov. 10, 1951

A similar fate ended the life of Benazir Bhutto. There are a lot of questions and very few answers.

To save herself from being anathematized as a discarded varmint Benazir needs to explain the claim that she wears a white “chador” per Sindhi custom to take revenge on Pakistani who she blames for the death of her father. Is this a “Fifth column” amongst us? She has been impugned for her furtive and malevolent machinations which led to the hapless emaciation and denouement of the Khalistan movement.ZABZULFIQAR ALI BHUTTO WAS A THORN IN THE SIDE OF THE USA:  The youngest Foreign Minister of Pakistan, the mercurial Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was building Pakistani bridges with China. He wanted to close the US base in Pakistan, which he succeed in doing. President Johnson told President Ayub Khan  “Bhutto must Go! Bhutto must Go!“.

Henry KissingerZulfiqar Ali BhuttoSoon thereafter Bhutto resigned and created the Pakistan Peoples Party. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was threatened by Henry Kissinger that if he did not cease and desist in pursuing Nuclear weapons, “a horrible example would be made of him“. Ironically Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was hanged by General Zia ul Haq, a General supported by the USA for more than a decade.

PPPBENAZIR’S PPP WAS INITIALLY “MADE IN THE USA”:  After hiring a high powered lobbying firm in Washington, the transformation of the “Daughter of the East” to the “Daughter of the Dollar” was completed this year. Benazir made a lot of enemies in Pakistan by declaring that she would allow access to A.Q. Khan and that she would allow US forces into Pakistan. Her popularity plummeted after these and other similar comments which were construed as unpatriotic by most Pakistanis.

I have to start off with my recent perceptions of her. She was a corrupt politician who was more interested in her political legacy than in the welfare of her nation and people. President Bush said today that Bhutto was someone who fought against terrorism. She did so, conveniently, post 9-11. During the mid 1990s she was openly pro-Taliban as the Pakistani government was one of the few nations in the world that recognized that neo-Khawarij regime.

“I am disgusted with the US media. Their coverage of Bhutto as some sort of martyr is despicable and inappropriate. Man, she really did a good job of portraying herself as some sort of beacon of hope for Pakistan. This woman was liable to be arrested at any moment by Interpol because of all the money laundering she and her husband were involved in with 3 to 4 different countries. She was a crook, plain and simple, yet our wonderful press is making her out to be the next Mother Teresa. This is like if Michael Vick was trying to run for Senator of Georgia ten years from now and then he was murdered and all anyone was talking about was how great a football player he was without any mention of his dog fighting crimes. This is so Orwellian”

Omar Sobhani: Boston University Counterpunch

RECENT FALLING OUT BETWEEN USA AND PPPs BENAZIR

“The source, while quoting an intelligence report submitted well before the assassination of Benazir Bhutto by one of the country’s leading intelligence agencies, said the government was astounded when it was reported that an international player, apparently friendly with Islamabad, was funding certain extremist elements in tribal areas through Afghanistan to cause destabilisation.

After Benazir Bhutto’s death, there are now serious concerns being raised about the safety of PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif, whose name was disclosed by the interior ministry as being on the hit list of al-Qaeda.

Although, Benazir Bhutto’s appearance on the hit list of al-Qaeda would have been a possibility for her pro-American statements, many are surprised here to find Nawaz Sharif on it. Nawaz Sharif and his PML-N have been critical of most post-9/11 US policies and never did anything to invite the ire of al-Qaeda.

They have been opposing and condemning the military action in tribal areas.

It is feared even by official circles that if Nawaz Sharif (God forbid) meets the same fate as that of Benazir Bhutto, it would be chaotic and a serious threat to the integrity of Pakistan, which is already facing serious challenges because of the assassination of one of two top-most popular leaders in the country.

There is, however, an admission by these official circles that the kind of security that should have been provided to Benazir Bhutto was not there; thus, making it easy for the assassins to get her.

It was not only Benazir Bhutto who was dissatisfied with the security provided to her by the government but Nawaz Sharif, too, on Monday voiced serious concern over his security.

MESSAGE TO THE USA: “HANDS OFF PAKISTAN“:

 Most recently, Mohamed El Baradei, the head of the United Nations’ atomic watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, voiced concerns over the this possibility. “I fear chaos … an extremist regime could take root in that country, which has 30 to 40 warheads,” El Baradei told the pan-Arab daily al-Hayat. After a strong Pakistani reaction, he later withdrew the comments.

CATCH 22: Such comments are viewed in Pakistan’s strategic quarters as deliberate mischief on the part of the West. On the one hand it insists that Islamabad come down hard on militancy, but when this is done, the militants react against the government. The West then points to the problem of rising extremism and projects the danger posed to Pakistan’s arsenal. Atimes

The repercussions from this assassination have rippled across the globe. Clearly Benazir Bhutto was America’s woman in Pakistan. Those who assassinated her have sent a message to the USA. Who sent this message? Was this a reaction to the American efforts of removing President Musharraf?

It is doubtful that the army or the agencies were involved because they could have controlled her actions even if she became Prime Minister. Her assassination was probably the work of sponsored Al-Qaida which sent a message to Pakistan and the USA that Pakistan cannot be run by American stooges.

A senior security analyst commented to Asia Times Online, on the condition of anonymity, “Pakistan is once again at a strange crossroad where its national interests are at stake. We have been under immense US pressure because of which we abandoned our national Afghan policy [support for the Taliban]. We don’t actually have any option because of the huge American pressure. But it should be recalled, we didn’t actually succumb on the Kashmir issue. We did compromise in our support for the armed opposition of Kashmiris against Indian forces, but not completely. And I think this is the time for us to reconsider our options and priorities in the region.”

Washington may be in the process of losing a friend. Syed Saleem Shahzad is Asia Times Online’s Pakistan Bureau Chief.

SHORT TERM REPERCUSSIONS: Increase in Anti-Americanism

The short term repercussions are that this murder will impact the general election in Pakistan and the USA and creates new political realities. There has been a dramatic increase in Anti-Americanism as a result of the discussion of Pakistani Nukes as well as plans for more boots on the ground in Pakistan. The question on who will lead the Pakistan Peoples Party has not been settled in the rank and file of the party and the Sindhi “waderas”? Benazir Bhutto had run the party like her personal fiefdom and drummed out all the founding members of the party who were friends of her father. Mr. Zardari is a despised icon of corruption and maladroit misadministration in Pakistan. His “leadership” of the party will be challenged. A fractured PPP may be on the horizon. The ripple effects of the tribals and tribulations of the PPP go beyond the shores of Pakistan.

Clinton and Republicans John McCain and Rudolph W. Giuliani are seen by Iowa and New Hampshire voters as having the best credentials to deal with national security issues.

“With the assassination of Benazir Bhutto today, the world once again is reminded of the dangers facing those who pursue democracy and free elections in Pakistan and elsewhere in areas that are rife with conflict and violence and extremism and anti-democratic forces at work,” Clinton said. She said later that the events in Pakistan “are a stark reminder of how important it is for as many Iowans as possible to be part of charting our country’s future.” L.A. Times Dec. 27th, 2007

The Pakistani Leaders are fully aware of the American moves and have contingency plans in the offing

“Lt-Gen (retd) Jamshed Gulzar Kayani, who was amongst those serving generals at the time who had voiced their opposition to the post-9/11 Islamabad’s war on terror policy, when contacted told this correspondent that Pakistan’s nuclear programme had been the main target of the world’s most influential capitals, who wanted to see this country unstable and chaotic so that they could get hold of our nuclear assets.

Kayani, who had the reputation of a professional soldier and had also served the ISI, besides holding key military positions, believes that Benazir’s killing was part of an international conspiracy executed with active connivance of local players to create such a situation in Pakistan that suits those hell-bent on de-nuclearising Pakistan.Ansar Abbasi. The News

LONG TERM REPERCUSSIONS:

The long term repercussions on Pakistani politics cannot be underestimated. The PPP will sill be run by the Bhutto-Zardari family is some ways, though it may split into pieces. Benazir’s children will attempt to step into the vacuum and begin leading the party. Mr. Zardari will probably not politically survive the storm brewing within the PPP beyond a few months.  The splintering of the PPP is imminent. The Long term impact of attempting to impose a compliant Prime Minister in Pakistan by the USA will surely create problems for the South Asia desk of the State Department.

Pakistan supported China when she was recognized only by Albania, and built the bridge to the USA. This fact cannot be forgotten by the Chinese who mention it in every summit and mentioned it in this summit also.In not so hushed voiced the Pakistani elite and the electorate is questioning Pakistan’s alliances with the USA. With a resurgent Russia and an emerging China, the SCO is an alternative that is being considered at all levels of the Pakistani intellectuals. Just like SEATO and CENTO once saved Pakistan’s existence, now the SCO is the life-line.

Rehman responded when asked about the chances of successful dialogue between the Taliban and NATO.

The British Empire does not even show half of Pakistan“Military operations in Pakistan and Afghanistan have only bred extremism. Pakistan should avoid that. The West should learn the lessons of British India days, when the empire stayed away from the tribal areas and even signed an agreement for the independent nature of the tribal areas, and Pakistan also abides by the same agreement with the tribes,” Rehman said…Syed Shehzad Saleem. ATimes

Pakistan and ChinaThe last “Mayor of Kabul”. Mr. Karzai.“You can call me a US puppet ”With the US ignoring Pakistan’s concerns in Afghanistan viz a viz an anti-Pakistani government in Kabul, and a tin ear to Pakistan’s interests, an historical realignment may be the logical consequence of the rampant Anti-Americanism on the streets and parliament of Pakistan

THE DETAILS TO DESTABILIZE PAKISTAN ARE AVAILABLE IN THE MEDIA AND KNOWN TO THE PAKISTANI LEADERSHIP WHICH HAS TAKEN PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS

Professor Michel Chossudovsky sheds some light on the plan:

“ It has been known for months that the Bush-Cheney administration and its allies have been maneuvering to strengthen their political control of Pakistan, paving the way for the expansion and deepening of the “war on terrorism” across the region.

Various American destabilization plans, known for months by officials and analysts, proposed the toppling of Pakistan’s military…

The assassination of Bhutto appears to have been anticipated. There were even reports of “chatter” among US officials about the possible assassinations of either Pervez Musharraf or Benazir Bhutto, well before the actual attempts took place. (Larry Chin, Global Research, 29 December 2007)

“Regime change” with a view to ensuring continuity under military rule is no longer the main thrust of US foreign policy. The regime of Pervez Musharraf cannot prevail. Washington’s foreign policy course is to actively promote the political fragmentation and balkanization of Pakistan as a nation.

A new political leadership is anticipated but in all likelihood it will take on a very different shape, in relation to previous US sponsored regimes. One can expect that Washington will push for a compliant political leadership, with no commitment to the national interest, a leadership which will serve US imperial interests, while concurrently contributing under the disguise of “decentralization”, to the weakening of the central government and the fracture of Pakistan’s fragile federal structure.

The political impasse is deliberate. It is part of an evolving US foreign policy agenda, which favors disruption and disarray in the structures of the Pakistani State. Indirect rule by the Pakistani military and intelligence apparatus is to be replaced by more direct forms of US interference, including an expanded US military presence inside Pakistan.

This expanded military presence is also dictated by the Middle East-Central Asia geopolitical situation and Washington’s ongoing plans to extend the Middle East war to a much broader area.

“U.S. Special Forces are expected to vastly expand their presence in Pakistan, as part of an effort to train and support indigenous counter-insurgency forces and clandestine counterterrorism units” (William Arkin, Washington Post, December 2007).

The official justification and pretext for an increased military presence in Pakistan is to extend the “war on terrorism”. Concurrently, to justify its counterrorism program, Washington is also beefing up its covert support to the “terrorists.”

…Already in 2005, a report by the US National Intelligence Council and the CIA forecast a “Yugoslav-like fate” for Pakistan “in a decade with the country riven by civil war, bloodshed and inter-provincial rivalries, as seen recently in Balochistan.” (Energy Compass, 2 March 2005).

….Continuity, characterized by the dominant role of the Pakistani military and intelligence has been scrapped in favor of political breakup and balkanization.

….This US agenda for Pakistan is similar to that applied throughout the broader Middle East Central Asian region. US strategy, supported by covert intelligence operations, consists in triggering ethnic and religious strife, abetting and financing secessionist movements while also weakening the institutions of the central government. The broader objective is to fracture the Nation State and redraw the borders of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Afghanistan and Pakistan Professor Michel Chossudovsky 

REVOLUTION IN PAKISTAN? American meddling in Pakistan could lead to a   revolution? Islamic parties in Pakistan control less than 10% of the vote block as opposed to a large following in Shia Iran. In recent election the MMA and the JUI lost most of their seats. The PPP and the PML are both mainstream secular parties which have popular support in urban and rural Pakistani politics. However the PPPP remains discredited and too much under the influence of foreign powers. There is an awakening in Pakistan that may sweep away the failed politicians and corrupt oligarchy.

PAKISTANI NUCLEAR WEAPONS:This is a Neocon Red herring and deeply insulting to Pakistanis of all persuasions.  This discussion is counterproductive to Pakistani-American friendly relations. (See article on Pakistani reaction to American forces trying to take out Pakistan’s Nuclear Weapons) The Nuclear weapons are safe in the hands of the army as they have always been. More than 30,000 soldiers guard the assetts. A country that bore 10 years of sanctions to protect herself from externatl agression has the capability to safeguard the weapons. President Musharraf said the weapons can withstand a nuclear strike. They are probably deep in the mountains which cannot be bombed. The anti-Pakistan speculation in the American press harps on the fear factor. This hate mongering supports the  perpetual mimetic warfare and plays into the hands of those who are expecting the USA to lead a “Crusade” against all Muslims.

“On Wednesday, a New York datelined story published on the back page of The News while quoting a website developed by the US Homeland Security and the intelligence news disclosed that US special squads were all set and ready to take into their possession Pakistan’s nuclear weapons in the event of a political upsurge or the dissolution of the government.

“The US special squad has been ordered to stay on alert to capture Pak nuclear warheads in case of political instability there,” the report said, adding special squad comprising 10,000 soldiers and headed by two major-generals was entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding these weapons.Ansar Abbassi The News

Pakistan and ChinaMAJOR REALIGNMENT IN THE OFFING?

The US tin ear has to change. America must listen to Pakistan. The war must end. This extremism has to be dealt with a composite and multi-dimensional manner and a Police Action. Unless this happens, we are looking at some extreme changes in South Asia. With a belligerent US press, an ingrateful American public, a vitriolic USA Talk Radio, unkept United States promises, ephimeral Americans friendship, a resurgent Russia, and tried and tested friendship with China, Pakistan may now be looking a major tectonic realignment with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Iran and Turkey.

Pakistan Day Celebrations are unparalled anywhere in the worldBRINGING STABILITY TO THE AFGHAN PROVINCES:

Abolish the Duran LineNATO can be sent on extended leave. All Pashtun areas have to be securedExtending the boundaries from the Indus to the Amu Darya will bring peace to South AsiaFor the past century, Afghanistan has brought instability to Pakistan and the rest of the world for two decades. It is time to end this experiment started by Durand. Urgent steps should be taken to eliminate all foreign forces from South and Central Asia.  Pakistani forces can bring peace to Afghanistan. To bring stability to the region and as a first step all the Pashtun provinces should be inculcated into Pakistan. As a later step the Pakistani boundary should extend to the Oxus (Amu Darya).  This will make the Pashtuns happy and will help eliminate terrorism in the region.

THE SOLUTION TO THE STABILITY OF PAKISTAN: The answer is a massive Marshall Plan for Pakistan

WAS THE ASSASSINATION UNAVOIDABLE? In the face of Al-Qaida threats to Benazir and Musharraf, President Musharraf had banned open rallies. However, Benazir Bhutto swore to break that ban and insisted on holding open rallies, with her own security.  

WHO KILLED BHUTTO? Al-Qaida brags about the assassination.

“We terminated the most precious American asset which vowed to defeat mujahideen.” These were the words of al-Qaeda’s top commander for Afghanistan operations and spokesperson Mustafa Abu al-Yazid, immediately after the attack that claimed the life of Pakistani politician Benazir Bhutto on Thursday (December 27).

“This is our first major victory against those [eg, Bhutto and President Pervez Musharraf] who have been siding with infidels [the West] in a fight against al-Qaeda and declared a war against mujahideen,” Mustafa told Asia Times Online atimes.

However the Al-Qaeda leadership and the Taliban have also refuted the claims to the assassination. The Taliban spokesman informed the world that Baitullah Mehsud had given full permission to naib amir of the TTP Maulana Faqir Muhammad for holding talks with the government for restoration of peace. He also dispelled the impression that Taliban militants had been fighting against the armed forces of the country. “Armed forces are the asset of the country and there is no question of fighting against them,” he said. “We are peaceful people, but some anti-social elements have been using the name of Taliban for achieving their ulterior motives,” he added.

The only other major play to benefit from the assassination is the CIA-RAW-MOSSAD-KHAD. The cat is out of the bag, and contingency plans have been developed to thwart the nefarious designs.

END OF ARTICLE

Appendix A: A very exhaustive list of declassified documents with links. This library is a must read for all those interested in Pakistani history.

Recently declassified documents on the assassination of Khan Liaqat Ali Khan.http://www.icdc.com/~paulwolf/pakistan/pakintrigue.htm#liaquat

   Paul Wolf’s home page

Pakistan: Partition and Military Succession

Documents from the U.S. National Archives

 

POLITICAL INTRIGUE

Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Sept. 19, 1955

Congen Lahore reports Liaquat shot this afternoon while attending meeting of Muslim City League at Rawalpindi. Operated on due two shots in chest. Hospital reports wound serious but not rpt not necessarily fatal. Assailant killed by crowd not rpt not yet identified. Information not rpt not yet confirmed by GOP Karachi. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 16, 1951

Prime Minister killed at Rawalpindi by Islam League fanatic. No rpt no internal disturbances reported. … Embassy informed Cabinet meeting tomorrow to be presided over by Governor Gen. who will probably step down as GG and take over temporarily as PM. Reference EmbDesp 409 October 4. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Oct. 16, 1951

Although popular information attributes assassination to Khaksars, high authority in Government informs Embassy that killer Syed Akhbar, was an Afghan national and was motivated by (1) Pukhtoonistan sentiment and anger over political detention of his brother and (2) resentment over Pak Govts cautious attitude toward Kashmir. Killer had participated in Kashmir war. Source says connection with Pukhtoonistan will not rpt not be released to press. Killer left his home in Abbotabad for Rawalpindi on 14th. Emergency meeting of available Cabinet Ministers with Secy Gen Mohamed Ali presiding just concluded. No rpt no indication successor; decision probably not rpt not made. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 16, 1951

Government press information department is now telling press that assassin was Afghan national. Press information officer now says identity established as member of Jagran tribe. Present state of public opinion indicates strong possibility of public demand for war if this information accepted by public. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 17, 1951

I have just talked with Ghulam Mohd who asked me to send you his affectionate greetings. He said he is bearing up very well under shock of Liaquat’s death and necessity for taking immediate decisions that have resulted in his appointment and Nazimuddin’s Premiership. They are being sworn in tomorrow afternoon at four. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 18, 1951

This p.m. I had tea with Ghulam Mohammed following his arrival from Rawalpindi by train. He stood journey without undue fatigue and his convalescence does not appear to have been retarded by shocks of last 2 days. He will take oath of office as Governor General tomorrow at 4 p.m. and will immediately swear in Nazimuddin as PM. Announcement of new Cabinet will not be made immediately. Liaquat’s cabinet will continue in their various port-folios for time being. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Oct. 18, 1951

The Pakistan government has identified the assassin of Liaquat Ali Khan, late Prime Minister of Pakistan, as being Sayed Akber, son of Babrak Khan. If that assertion is true, the above mentioned Sayed Akber, together with his brother, [Za]marak, insurged against the government of Afghanistan in 1944 at a place named Elmara in Jadran, situated in the southern province of Afghanistan. The government forces defeated the insurrection and the two brothers escaped. After wandering for some time, they surrendered themselves to the British frontier authorities who interned them in Abot Abad, and granted them regular salaries. After the partition of India, the said Sayed Akber was given asylum by the Pakistan government. It is clear, therefore, that the said Sayed Akber had no connection whatsoever with Afghanistan, which looks upon such activities with great indignation. Official Afghan Reaction to Press Implications of Afghan Complicity in Assassination of Pakistan Prime Minister, Oct. 18, 1951

Iskander Mirza Defense Secretary called on me yesterday morning before cabinet meeting and asked my advice regarding Pak Govt attitude on publicity as to Afghan nationality of Primins assassin, money found in his possession, etc. I asked if facts were true and he said they were. I said that further publicity on this line would have bad effect on popular mind and he apparently agreed. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 19, 1951

Reliable source in Pak Intelligence Bureau reports that Pak Govt has been aware intelligence activities of Afghan Consul in Peshawar for some time and that he is known to have had recent and frequent contacts with Syed Akhbar, Assassin of Primin. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 19, 1951

Press reaction including Bengali to assassination Liaquat Ali Khan: papers repeat GOI official’s remarks and expand expressions sympathy and condemnation of violence in editorials. Moderation is keynote throughout with exception extreme leftist press including Communist “Swadhinata” which states “Liaquat’s death only reflects inevidable disaster that overtakes policy of playing lackey to Anglo-American Powers,” also accuses Nazimuddin of “Western bias” and of planning prevention improvement position Suhrawardy. … Speculation in Calcutta tends emphasize probability assassination resulted same group (military) whose planned coup March 1951 nipped by GOP. Sources think military extremists hands strengthened. Restricted Telegram from Consulate General, Calcutta, Oct. 19, 1951

Afghan Charge handed Department October 18 translated communique from Kabul for local press, stating in summary if GOP identification Liaquat’s assassin Syed Akhbar as Afghan national correct, it was clear Akhbar and brother involved in unsuccessful insurrection against GOA 1944 southern province following which they interned India. Communique indicated GOA revulsion assassination. … Embassy Kabul should seek occasion soonest convey substance above remarks Foreign Office. While Department recognizes necessity Afghan pronouncement in answer implications press reports, believes best interest both countries served by limiting public discussion. Request earliest transmission fullest information and Embassy comments re alleged 1944 insurrection and possibility Commie instigation assassination. Secret Telegram from Secretary of State, Oct. 20, 1951

[] reports Afghan Consul Peshawar presently in Kabul. This confirmed by British Embassy clerk who when on October 16 asked for transport in Egyptian Embassy vehicle from Peshawar to Kabul was told seat was unavailable because Afghan Consul had been promised transport to Kabul. Embassy feels Afghan Consul’s departure not rpt not necessarily connected with assassination as no rpt no information established connection available this time. Afghan press today admits Liaquat assassin may have been one Syed Akbar from Khost Province in Afghan but stated that he and brother Zamarak had fled to South Waziristan in 1945 after inciting unsuccessful rebellion and were later resettled in Abbotabad and given pensions by British thus losing Afghan nationality. Consequently, press maintains Afghan cannot rpt not be held in any way responsible. Other source states assassin and two brothers (one named Izmair) were members leading family Hjadran tribe in Khost Province and fled to South Waziristan when tribe was defeated in 1945 uprising against Khost Provincial Government. Also states assassin was member “Red Shirt” organization but affiliation two surviving brothers, now residing Pakistan, unknown. Secret Telegram from Kabul Embassy, Oct. 21, 1951

It seems generally accepted in [Rawalpindi and Peshawar] that Afghan Consul was paymaster of assassin PAK PRIMIN. According to one story Consul made trip to Afghan frontier in own car and upon arrival paid off his Pak chauffeur. Chauffeur allegedly had no previous knowledge of trip or fact he was to be dismissed and on return Peshawar spole of matter to friends and to Pak Intelligence. In conversations with various non-official persons, including Pashtuns, it was stated as self-evident fact that Pashtuns as group have always provided assassins for suitable price. Pashtun racial background of assassin SEYED AKBAR was accepted as wholly natural. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 22, 1951

The Current Outlook in Pakistan, Oct. 22, 1951

In accordance GOP request Pakistan Press has refrained since October 19 from referring to Afghan connections of assassin. Government has not released to public information that assassin was in contact with Afghan Consul at Peshawar. GOP has no information indicating any commie connection with assassination. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 23, 1951

Secret Telegram from Kabul Embassy, Oct. 23, 1951

Embassy today received Circular from Afghan Embassy containing following remarks: Assassin said Akhbar and brother revolted against Afghan government 1944. After defeat rebellion they fled over border and finally gave up selves to British authorities. For some unknown reason British gave them shelter in Abbottabad, center of Hazara district, and also gave them money to live on. After division Pakistan and India, Pakistan government, unconcerned about international law or acknowledged neighborly behavior, have been investigating against government of Afghanistan and, among other activities, have sought services of this assassin. His late crime proves that assassin was not only enemy of present regime Afghanistan but, through some other mysterious machinations in Pakistan itself, he also became enemy of Pakistan government. Government and people Afghanistan who could have possibly no connection with assassin look upon such base and mean crime with abhorrence and disdain. Secret Telegram from Moscow Embassy, Oct. 26, 1951

Under headline reading “Is Liaquat Ali Khan’s assassination result of a deep-laid American conspiracy?”, leftist Urdu daily Bhopal named Nadeem published article October 24 charging US with responsibility.

Summary article follows: 

Since article apparently not rpt not widely circulated, Department believes preferable not rpt not issue public denial. In its discretion, however, Embassy might informally mention case MEA with comment story so preposterous no rpt no public denial intended. Would be interesting to know whether this story of character which led adoption recent press law. Ownership management NADEEM should be discreetly be investigated. Confidential Telegram from State Dept., Nov. 1, 1951

 

 

Soviet Press today carried Prague Despatch reporting Rude Pravo article based Afghan press agency “Bahtar” information re assassination Liaquat Ali. Despatch states after escaping Afghanistan due murders and other crimes “Said Akbar ran to India and there under protection British authorities which gave him refuge in Abbotabad and provided him money. After partition India Akbar remained in Pakistan where he continued make use protection of certain British circles.” “These facts adduced by Afghan press supporting position that murder Liaquat Ali was result intrigue of imperialists in Asian countries.” Secret Telegram from Moscow Embassy, Nov. 3, 1951 [only first page located]

 

 

The Embassy questions the premise stated in the first sentence of the Airgram under reference (“Lack of spontaneous anti-Indian and anti-Afghan popular outburst over both July war scare and Liaquat’s assassination suggests feeling on Kashmir and Afghan disputes mostly government inspired.”) … The anti-Afghan agigation that spontaneously sprang up on October 16-17 was effectively stopped by the GOP’s prompt exercise of its official and unofficial powers of censorship over the press, even to the extent of preventing reference after October 17 to the assassin’s Afghan origin. Popular Feeling in Pakistan on Kashmir and Afghan Issues, Nov. 10, 1951

With regard to the assassination of the Prime Minister in Rawalpindi, Colonel Massart stated that he had not attended the meeting because of his UN position. He stated that part of the public reaction was a great surprise to him, since he found some of the non-commissioned officers nto expressing horror, but making remarks, “He should have known better to come to Rawalpindi, where he should have known that he would be shot.” The Colonel considers that Rawalpindi was a center of “anti-Liaquat feeling.” Confidential Telegram from Lahore Consulate, Nov. 14, 1951

Acting Foreign Minister Hussain informed me tonight in conversation called at his request that Paks had recd information over past two-three weeks that Afghan authorities rpt Afghan authorities had recently surreptitiously released from incarceration over 120 known killers with orders infiltrate Pak and eliminate Pak public men. At first Paks did not believe but Hussain states that information has now reached Paks causing them consider reports beyond doubt. He would not reveal sources of latter information beyond admitting that some came from Pak Embassy Kabul but with most from many other sources. Added that if other public men assassinated by suspected Afghan nationals government will be unable hold people in check. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Nov. 15, 1951

Liaquat Ali Khan was buried in the same manner (tomb) as Jinnah. In order to accomplish this, a wall behind Jinnah’s grave was torn down and access to the grave for the funeral procession was across a raised marble floor surrounding Jinnah’s mazar to Liaquat’s grave in the rear. This has continued to be the primary avenue to the grave of Liaquat used by the many mourners who still visit there every day. It is reliably reported, however, that Fatima Jinnah ordered the caretaker of Quaid-i-Azam’s mazar to rebuild the wall. She later repeated the request to the Secretary of the Ministry of Works. The matter was put before the Minister and on the same day orders were given to raise up the wall again. However, shortly afterwards the new wall was torn down by what was variously described in the press as a “bevy of All-Pakistan Women’s Association amazons” to a “mob from Quaiddbad.” M.A. Zuberi, Editor of the Evening Star told an officer of the Embassy that, in fact, two officers of the All-Pakistan Women’s Association, of which Begum Liaquat Ali Khan is President, incited a group of people at the mazar to tear down the wall. Public Role of Ms. Fatima Jinnah Since Assassination of Liaquat, Nov. 17, 1951

The Commission inquiring into the security precautions taken at time of Liaquat’s assassination reconvened Lahore Jan. 3. Among witnesses examined since convening are Khan Najaf Khan, Special Police, and Anwar Ali, Deputy Inspector General of Police, CIA (in “camera”). No conclusive findings made or announced thus far. Political and Economic Developments for the Week Ending Jan. 8, 1952, Jan. 8, 1952

Political Developments in Pakistan, Sept.-Dec. 1951, Jan. 30, 1952

The most significant internal development during the quarter, bearing on US interests and objectives, was Liaquat’s assassination. Aside from being an avowed friend of the US, Liaquat was a constructive factor of decision and strength, both in government and party leadership. … It seems clear that Prime Minister Nazimuddin, though basically friendly to the West, lacks the stubborn firmness that served Liaquat, the Muslim League and the country as a whole in its early formative years. Confidential Telegram A-251 from Karachi Embassy, Feb. 11, 1952

Political Developments in Pakistan, January 1952, Feb. 25, 1952

Summary of report Liaquat assassination enquiry commission, released by GOP yesterday, being sent in clear Embtel following. Emb believes commission report which is vague and inconclusive leaves cabinet in more vulnerable position than before enquiry started. Motive not established, according to released summary, and GOP now wide open to accusations by its critics of suppression of info and of not satisfying public demand, accusationswhich were made before release. It seems possible that summary is much watered-down version of full report in hands of GOP and that full facts will not be made public. Cabinet particularly vulnerable on enquiry commission’s announcement that info would not be divulged on three conspiracies uncovered. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Aug. 18, 1952

Siddiq Wahab, one of speakers at public meeting August 14 addressed by Larachi Muslim League dissidents, arrested by police Aug 18 for “promoting hatred against Govt.” Emb local employees who attended meeting state that in addition to demanding publication Liaquat assassination enquiry report Wahab accused Nazimuddin and some of his cabinet of complicity in Liaquat assassination. Wahab is a director of large Karachi Urdu daily Anjam. Begum Liaquat in statement issued to press Aug 18 has strongly criticized published enquiry report. She stated “anybody reading report will be impressed particularly by wise reserve with which Commission left open the all important qusetion … that is, whether or not act of assassin was individiaul act of Said Akbar or perpetrated by him in pursuance of conspiracy,” and added “it is for nation now they have seen report to judge for themselves whether they satisfied with steps so far taken to track down hidden hand behind tragedy.” Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Aug. 19, 1952

Speculation is wide that the assassination was part of a conspiracy involving persons high in provincial or Central Govt. Khan Najaf Khan seems to be the convenient scapegoat. In fact careful reading of report shows there was negligent handling of security measures all down the line and at the inquiry both the Punjab Govt. and the North West Frontier Province Govt. seemed far more interested in passing the blame to each other and in covering up for their own officials than in getting at the truth. NWFP is involved because the assassin was under local detention in Abbotabad, NWFP, and was not supposed to make a move without police permission. Political and Economic Developments for the Week Aug 17-23, Aug. 25, 1952

Sudden death in air crash of GOP Inspector General of Police brought forth revelation that he was to be officially assigned to case. Press sources claimed he was already secretly working on it. H.S. Suhrawardy, head of opposition Junnah Awami League called on GOP to compel Punjab Government to do its duty in getting to the bottom of the assassination conspiracy. Political and Economic Summary for Week Aug. 24-29, 1952, Aug. 30, 1952

The Inquiry Committee investigating the recent plane crash in which GOP Inspector General of Police was killed has revealed that all the principal documents relating to the Liaquat assassination investigation were on the plane and had been received safely. It is believed here by some that this is another link in the chain of suspicious events surrounding the assassination. Had the plane burned on crashing, as tehre was good reason to expect, all the documents would have conveniently disappeared and the investigation would have practically come to an end. This of course has served to increase the rumors that high officials are implicated in the assassination and are making every effort to prevent an honest and efficient investigation. Political and Economic Summary for Week August 30 – September 5, 1952, Sept. 9, 1952

The release of the report which hinted at dark conspiracies and accused several police officials of derelication of duty in failing to take proper security precautions, opened the dam for a flood of rumors, suppositions and speculations. The most popularly accepted theory was that the assassination was the result of a conspiracy in which high officials were involved and that efforts had been, and were being made, to suppress an impartial and thorough inquiry. The Inquiry Commission was appointed by the Punjab government and much criticism was heaped on its head as a result of the report. Many demands were made for the Central Government to take up the investigation. Soon after the report was published, the Inspector General of Police of Pakistan was killed in a freak air crash. In the plane wreckage were found all the documents pertaining to the investigation. It thus leaked out that the central government had in fact been working on the case through a few days earlier the Prime Minister had stated that it was a purely provincial matter. The rumor factories at once linked the air crash with alleged attempts at suppression of evidence and concluded that it was all part of a well laid plan. However, after a few days of sensational reporting of the case the press did a black out and popular curiosity seems to have died down. Bi-Monthly Political Report – July and August, 1952, Sept. 12, 1952

Khan Najaf Khan, Police Official accused of negligence in failing to take proper security precautions for the safety of Liaquat has reportedly answered the charge sheet served on him. The burden of his answer is not yet revealed but it is assumed by all he will plead not guilty to the charges. Begum Liaquat has again charged that the government is dragging its feet in pressing the investigation of the assassination. COMMENT: It is widely rumored here that the charges against Najaf Khan are merely a cover for the parties really responsible for the assassination. Bazaar rumors are to the effect that he will be temporarily suspended but taken care of either financially or otherwise. Begum Liaquat has not failed to point out the inconsistency of the claim made by the GOP Prime Minister that the investigation was a purely provincial matter with the later revelation that the GOP Inspector General of Police was investigating the matter on behalf of the Central Govt and was conveniently killed in a recent plane crash. It has also been stated soto vocethat the true instigators of the assassination are the same persons behind the Rawalpindi conspiracy to overthrow the government. A connection of some sort was hinted at in the official report of the assassination investigation. The link, it is rumored, lies in the fact that Liaquat was insisting on the death penalty for the conspirators and it was therefore necessary to eliminate him. Whether this connection is true or not, it is a fact that after Liaquat’s death the charges against the conspirators seem to have reached a stalemate and there are recent consistent reports of their impending release. ConGen officer was told by Finlay’s representative in Lahore that his company had received a letter signed by “ex-Major General Akbar Khan, Hyderabad Central Jail” inquiring as to prices of tractors and other agricultural equipment and stating that the writer expected to engage in large scale cultivation “within six months.” General Akbar Khan was the ringleader of the Rawalpindi conspiracy, and this communication if true would seem to indicate that at least the chief protagonist expects to be released in the near future. Political and Economic Summary, September 29-October 6, 1952, Oct. 6, 1952

Unnamed spokesman for GOP answered Begum Liaquat’s charges that investigation not pursued as actively as possible. He explained position of central govt. vis a vis provincial govt as being limited by Constitution to that of providing coordination and advice, but repeated that Law and Order are provincial subjects under Constitution. Punjab govt appointed Justice Abu Akram of the Federal Court of Pak to inquire into charges proferred against Khan Najaf Khan, police official accused of negligence in assassination. Weekly Political and Economic Summary, Oct. 6-12, 1952, Oct. 13, 1952

The formal inquiry before Mr. Justice Abu Saleh Mohammed Akram of the Federal Court, against Khan Najaf Khan, police official accused of negligence, started this week. It is being held in camera. Comment: It should be noted that a Federal court judge has been selected to conduct the inquiry in order to avoid the charges of provincialism which were levelled at the Assassination Commission itself. Nevertheless confidential reports reaching ConGen are to the effect that the present inquiry will be a whitewash and that Justice Akram is under the influence of Chief Min. Daultana and was selected for this very reason. Weekly Summary of Political and Economic Events, Oct. 20-26, 1952, Oct. 27, 1952

An unconfirmed news item appearing in the local press stated that the Punjab Govt is considering taking action against Khan Najaf Khan, Police Official, who has been accused of negligence in the Liaquat Assassination Commission Report. … According to the report if Mr. Najaf Khan is found to have been guilty of negligence he may appeal his case to the Central Govt as he in fact belongs to the Pak Police Service and is only on loan to the Punjab. Weekly Summary of Political and Economic Events, 18-25 January 1953, Jan. 26, 1953

The Punjab police have completed the inquiry into the assassiantion of the late Prime Minister, Mr. Liaquat Ali Khan, and now the scene of inquiry has been shifted to the Frontier Province where the Inquiry Board consisting of Director of the Intelligence Bureau and the Inspector-General of police of the Punjab and the Frontier, will continue further investigations. Weekly Summary of Political and Economic Events, Feb 23-3/1, 1953, March 2, 1953

According to a press report Khan Najaf Khan has been exonerated by the Pakistan Public Service Commission. At the time of Liaquat Ali Khan’s assassination Najaf Khan was Senior Superintendent of Police at Rawalpindi and was also acting as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in that area. Mr. Justice Abu Saleh Mohammad Akram, a Judge of the Federal Court, had conducted an inquiry against Khan Najaf Khan in connection with Liaquat Ali’s murder. Weekly Summary of Political and Economic Events, June 18-24, 1953, June 25, 1953

The agitation to force the Government to publish the report of the commission investigating former Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan’s assassination and to induce the Government to adopt more stringent measures to apprehend the guilty parties was continued during the reporting period. A DAWN suggestion that Scotland Yard be called in to solve the murder elicited strong pro and con feelings. Weekly Summary of Political Developments for the Week Ending October 30, 1953, Oct. 31, 1953

With considerable emotion, Begum Liaquat spoke about the assassination of her husband, the late Prime Minister. She said it was fantastic that two years after a murder in broad daylight before thousands of peopel, not one arrest had been made. What harm could come from a thorough investigation? Witnesses had not been questioned, no real attempt at investigation had been made, and yet when a demand for this was made, the Government not only refused but “hired” the editor of a paper who himself had been in jail under a previous Cabinet (Suleri of the Times of Karachi) to campaign against Dawn and the people demanding an investigation. Memorandum of Conversation with Begum Liaquat Ali Khan, Nov. 21, 1953

No, repeat no, objection Prime Minister announcing he intends request US aid in obtaining services private, repeat private, investigator. You should make clear to Prime Minister this assent does not guarantee success in finding satisfactory person in US and that US Government participation would extend only to informal aid in search for investigator as it has offered such aid to Pakistan on previous occasions for technical experts. Secret Telegram from State Dept., Dec. 29, 1953

Nur Ahmed … urged that the appointment of a “foreign expert” to investigate the murder of Liaquat Ali Khan be made before October 16, the anniversary of Liaquat’s death. Nogum Nahie [?], Karachi Municipal Councillor, whose press statements, like those of Nur Ahmed, appear with rather astonishing frequency, asked on October 5th why the promised “foreign expert” had not appeared. “The Prime Minister’s broadcasts say nothing about the matter nearest to every Pakistani’s heart. Maybe foreign detectives are here and are at work.” Summary of Political Events for Week Ending October 8, 1954, Oct. 9, 1954

Anniversary of the death of Liaquat Ali Khan - Begum Liaquat Ali Khan, newly appointed Ambassador to the Netherlands and widow of the former Prime Minister, assassinated on October 16, 1951, issued a 500 word statement from the Hague calling for a solution to the crime and asking six leading questions: 1) “Why” was Liaquat murdered at the height of his popularity, “on the eve of … important policy decisions”; 2) “Why” was the assassin shot after he had already been overpowered; 3) “Why” was the police official responsible (for shooting the assassin) promoted instead of punished; 4) “Why” were “certain interested and influential persons within the country … anxious to remove Liaquat”; 5) “Why” is the Quad-i-Azam’s name “being subtly and unjustly ignored”; 6) “Why” are these questions not answered. Liaquat’s son, Wilayat Ali Khan, also issued a statement in which he pointed to the political and economic deterioration of Pakistan in the past three years and called upon the Central and Provincial Governments to cooperate with the newly appointed foreign expert, C.P. U’ren in his investigation. The Karachi Muslim League organized a public meeting at Jehangir Park, Karachi, to commemorate the anniversary. The principal speaker, Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar, spoke generally on the “economic deterioration” of the country, provincialism, and eulogized the former Prime Minister. He claimed that Liaquat had been pressing for certain reforms at the time of his assassination. Nishtar was followed on the platform by Mohsin Siddiqi, General Secretary of the Karachi Muslim League adn by S. M. Taufique, President of the Karachi Muslim League. Weekly Summary of Political Events for Week Ending October 23, 1954, Oct. 23, 1954

Ghulam Mohammed

 

 

Ghulam Mohammed says he has no intention of dying before his work of building Pak has been reinforced and more progress made in organizing the Muslim world against Communism. He wants you to know that Zafrulla, Gurmani and he have no intention of allowing “India’s pin-pricks” to lead to an evolvement of war. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Sept. 7, 1951

Ghulam Mohammed emphatically repudiated the insinuation in some sections of the press that the help received by Pakistan from foreign countries had any political strings. He stated that “Pakistan’s freedom and independence were not for barter – but that it was an Islamic obligation to acknowledge kindness with gratitude.” Weekly Summary of Political and Economic Events – May 14-20, May 21, 1953

The subject of the Eyes Only telegram No. 341 of November 2 from Karachi on the question of the dangers of Pakistan constitutional development along theocratic lines was handled in the following manner. … The President did not refer directly to the question of religious influence referred to above but by his questions let it be known that we in the United States had an interest in seeing Pakistan work out her problems so that she would have an effective constitution. Discussion with Ghulam Mohammed, Nov. 13, 1953

Regarding Kashmir, I apprehended trouble from Nehru and he is now trying to use the American aid to us as an excuse for going back on international stipulations and obligations. We took a calculated risk in these two matters depending on your word and promise. I do hope you will stand by us so that Nehru is not allowed to get out of international obligations and is not able to throw dust in the eyes of the world over Kashmir on the excuse of American aid. I appreciate the delecacy of the situation, but I feel that my country can rely on your promise to ensure justice for us. Letter from Ghulam Mohammed to John Foster Dulles, March 23, 1954

The Embassy desires to emphasize again that these documents were given to the Ambassador in the strictest confidence and any revelation of the source would seriously damage relationships with the Governor General. … “I have in the course of my discussions regarding Arab countries joining USA and other countries in a plan for mutual defense, felt that there is a wave of opposition in some Arab countries and that others are lukewarm. My discussions have shown that this opposition proceeds from the causes set out below which need early attention … Transmittal of Revised Document Received from the Governor General, May 21, 1954

I told the Governor General that he was being credited by the U.S. with having been helpful in bettering relations between Saudi Arabia and the United States during the Haj visit, whereupon the Governor General said the King was just like a nephew to him. Memorandum of Conversation with Governor General Ghulam Mohammed, Nov. 4, 1954

Pakistan’s Leaders Face Difficulties in Achieving Political Stability, Feb. 4, 1955

Ghulam Mohammed has in fact assumed virtual dictatorial powers. Embassy convinced however Department’s assumption correct that immediate motive is to serve administrative convenience. … Re Callahan’s predictions concerning indefinite deferral democracy, Embassy considers these observations indicate failure understand real nature of problem here. Fact of matter is Pakistan lacks most of essential elements which provide basis for democratic government in Western countries and effort to judge developments here by degree which they approximate standards appropriate these countries altogether unrealistic and almost totally irrelevant. Secret Telgram from Karachi Embassy, March 30, 1955

According to a usually reliable source in the Governor-General’s household, Ghulam Mohammed kept General Mirza and Chaudhri Mohammad Ali on tenterhooks for several days as he refused to sign the resignation prepared for him. He was rational for several days preceding the ceremonial ten described in the referenced despatch but “childishly” stubborn about signing away the last vestige of his rule. His daughter’s and son-in-law’s entreaties failed, but an aide finally persuaded him to sign by promising him a trip to his favorite Muslim shrine near Lucknow, India. The source, a layman, described Ghulam Mohammed’s mental affliction as a failure of blood supply to one portion of the brain. This condition is permanent; Ghulam Mohammed’s health continues to improve but he will never again have the full use of his faculties. For almost two months after his stroke on June 27 Ghulam Mohammed’s utterances were 90 percent irrational; the proportion is now reversed. Ghulam Mohammed’s Resignation, Sept. 23, 1955

Iskander Mirza

 

 

Lt. Col Iskander Mirza, Secy of Defense Ministry, today asked Emb Army Attache pass following to me: Major General Akbar Khan “is 100 percent Communist” and has been in contact with Communists since he recently took up his job as Chief of Staff at Rawalpindi. In personal opinion Col Mirza, conspirators motivated by dissatisfaction with GOP handling of Kashmir issue and feeling that Pak should turn away from Western powers and toward Soviet Union. In addition to those whose arrest has been announced, Air Commodore Janjua, senior Pak airman recently returned from school in UK is under house arrest. Janjua is known to have been in contact with conspiring army officers. Two unnamed communists, presumably civilian, are being sought but have gone underground. Brigadier Hussain, Director Interservices Intelligence, expressed opinion to Army Attache that there is some unrest in Pak Army especially among junior officers and enlisted men, because of failure to settle Kashmir issue. Some members of Army strongly believe a change in Govt is only solution. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, March 10, 1951

When I called upon Sec Def (Mirza) this date on the MDAP matter he volunteered the following information which he asked me to pass on to the American Ambassador: a. Major General Akhbar Khan, senior military man involved in the conspiracy, is 100% communist. When he came to Rawalpindi as Chief of General Staff he contacted the communists of the Punjab. b. In addition to the people mentioned in the paper as having been arrested, the senior Pakistani Air Officer, Air Commodore Jinjua, recently returned from UK is in “house arrest.” He had conferred with the defecting army officers. c. In the opinion of Colonel Mirza, dissatisfaction with the handling of the Kashmir affair is probably behind this affair. He thinks that these officers wish to change their governments orientation from the West to Russia. d. He thinks that the Russian Embassy to Pakistan had something to do with the plot. He said that the Embassy had spent considerable money in the Punjab, to the extent of giving cameras to people. Secret Memorandum for the Record, March 10, 1951

Colonel Mirza, GOP Defense Secretary, stated to ConGen while visiting Lahore that Martial Law should be continued for a considerable period, in order that the politicians woudl understand that they had a duty of patriotism toward the country and could not act for their own selfish purposes. He did not indicate what period of time Martial Law would remain in force. He also stated that it was necessary that the civilian authorities did not revoke any of the Court Martial sentences. Without making a statement to that effect, he gave the impression that he was of the opinion that Daultana should be removed. Weekly Summary of Political and Economic Events, March 12-18, 1953, March 19, 1953 [emphasis in original]

I am convinced that at the present time the Government of Pakistan is being influenced strongly by a group of civil servants who have the backing, if not the actual participation, of the Pakistan Army. As far as I can determine, the definite members of this clique are Iskander Mirza, Akhtar Husain, and Agha Hilaly. Inasmuch as it is almost impossible for anything to happen at the secretarial level without the knowledge of the Cabinet Secretary, Aziz Ahmad, and inasmuch as he attended the Cabinet meeting on the night of February 26 at which the decision was taken to act firmly in the religious agitation, it is more than probably that Aziz is a participant. More than likely his brother, Ghulam Ahmad, the Interior Secretary and Intelligence Chief, is also involved. … I do not believe the group has influence or power enough yet to dictate political decisions to the Prime Minister. … AS you will recall from my conversation with General Ayub, I was told by Ayub that while he was reluctant to enter politics, he would take “no nonsense from the Center.” That, of course, was before the declaration of martial law in Lahore. Iskander Mirza subsequently told Col. Ashworth that as long as the Central Government proceeded in the right direction it would have Army support. He, too, implied that they would step in if there were signs of deviation from the present firm policy. Top Secret Office Memorandum of Karachi Embassy, April 6, 1953

Gen. Iskander Mirza leaves tonight midnight for Dacca to assume Governorship East Bengal tomorrow. … Impossible predict reaction East Bengal; violence certainly may occur. Mirza emphasizes has no desire rule by military force alone recognizes necessity establish clean administration. At same time he may be ruthless toward Communists. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, May 29, 1954

PriMin asked me to see him this morning. He said in view close relationships our two countries he was telling me in greatest confidence that decision had been taken impose Governor’s rule East Pakistan. Governor would be Iskander Mirza who was summoned from London and who will leave for Dacca tomorrow. … PriMin stated first act of Governor would be to arrest known communists. … PriMin stated intensified activity would proceed two fronts, psychological and economic. GOP plan establish two new radio stations East Bengal, step up informational program to high degree. On economic front Governor would see that peopel received cheap necessities of life, namely food, cloth, kerosene, mustard oil and salt. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, May 29, 1954

Iskander Mirza sworn in as Governor East Bengal 1800 hours. N.M. Khan Chief Secretary GOEB. Section 92-A (Governor’s rule) effective 1800 hours. IG police states District Magistrates to be given free hand for arrest “subversives”. Minister Sheikh Mujibir Rahman will be arrested immediately. Confidential Telegram from Dacca Consulate, May 31, 1954

“The present Governor of East Bengal has for private and personal reasons expressed a desire to be relieved of his office. It has therefore been decided to replace him by Major General Iskander Mirza who will be sworn in today.” Telgram from Karachi Embassy, June 1, 1954

Mirza said the only way for the US to stiffen Ali’s spine was to tighten the windscrew of economic and military assistance, making such assistance clearly dependent upon assurances of sane govt in Karachi. Mirza strongly recommended this course of action to US and stated his belief that Ali would respond favorably. Secret Telegram from London Embassy, Oct. 4, 1954

Mirza says he refused urgent calls return Karachi from London to await Primin. Believes Sunday’s action in best interests country, especially retaining Primin. Asked whether he expected trouble Mirza replied “We will make trouble,” meaning guilty would be punished. Said much to be cleaned up; for example Primin now finally recognized Mirza right in asking punishment corrupt Bengalis. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Oct. 26, 1954

[...]It was learned within Pakistani Foreign Office that while UK pressing Pakistan for support re Iran, US demanded Pakistan exploit influence with Iran and support Iran transfer oil fields to US. Liaquat declined request. US threatened annul secret pact re Kashmir. Liaquat replied Pakistan had annexed half Kashmir without American support and would be able to take other half. Liaquat also asked US evacuate air bases under pact. Liaquat demand was bombshell in Washington. American rulers who had been dreaming conquering Soviet Russia from Pakistan air bases were flabbergasted. American minds set thinking re plot assassinate Liaquat. US wanted Muslim assassin to obviate international complications. US could not find traitor in Pakistan as had been managed Iran, Iraq, Jordan. Washington rulers sounded US Embassy Kabul. American Embassy contacted Pashtoonistan leaders, observing Liaquat their only hurdle; assured them if some of them could kill Liaquat, US would undertake establish Pashtoonistan by 1952. Pashtoon leaders induced Akbar undertake job and also made arrangements kill him to conceal conspiracy. USG-Liaquat differences recently revealed by Graham report to SC; Graham had suddenly opposed Pakistan although he had never given such indication. [...] Cartridges recovered from Liaquat body were American-made, especially for use high-ranking American officers, usually not available in market. All these factors prove real culprit behind assassin is US Government, which committed similar acts in mid-East. “Snakes” of Washington’s dollar imperialism adopted these mean tactics long time ago. Confidential Telegram No. 1532 from New Delhi Embassy, Oct. 30, 1951

Memorandum of Conversation with Yusuf Haroon, April 3, 1954  

Recommend Department ignore article summarized in Delhi’s 1532. It is compilation of utter falsehoods whose vituperation is some degree worse than articles that appear from time to time in Bombay’s Commie-line “Blitz”. To issue any statement labeling the facts in the article as lies will only give Nadeem an importance it does not merit. The investigation into background of Liaquat’s assassination is being conducted with extreme care and well guarded secrecy. Gurmani tells me an intercept has been obtained which if backed up by further material may reveal the assassination had some inspiration and followed the pattern of Razmara’s assassination in Teheran. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embasssy, Oct. 31, 1951

 

Major General Mirza has said that democracy ran riot during the last seven years. It was not democracy but the denial of democratic rights that was responsible for the harm that has been done to our dear country. Had democracy a fair play, the evils would have been corrected long ago. UF Statement on General Mirza, Nov. 19, 1954

Comment on future form of government in Pakistan, Dec. 24, 1954

According to the Gazette of Pakistan dated January 21, 1955, Major General Iskander Mirza, C.S.P., retired from Government Service with effect from October 24, 1954. In effect this post-dated action removes from General Mirza the onus of having been appointed to a Cabinet post while still a member of the Civil Service. Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Jan. 25, 1955

Pakistani government will ignore challenge to its legality, Feb. 12, 1955

Iskander Mirza speaking February 15 to newly-organized West Pakistan Brotherhood praised Armed Forces highly and denied they taking active interest politics, and said “they have never taken part in politics nor is there any danyer that they will do so.” Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Feb. 17, 1955

Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, March 11, 1955

NSC Briefing: Background — Estimated Balances in Pakistan Politics, June 12, 1956

Secret Letter from Ambassador Hildreth to John Foster Dulles, Sept. 20, 1956

 

 

  • April 1953 Coup

Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, April 18, 1953

It becomes clear that Nazimuddin dismissal was planned and accomplished through combined efforts of Army leadership (specifically Def Secy Iskander Mirza and C-in-C Gen Ayub) and Gov Gen himself. Frustration which EMB has reported over past few months grew to exasperation at weakness and vascillation of Nazimuddin. Without doubt action by Iskander Mirza to declare martial law in Lahore Mar 6 in spite of PRIMIN objections saved country from what might have become national disaster. Mirza has apparently been in close touch with Gov Gen. Decision was taken by Gov Gen himself that PRIMIN could not be successfully managed and dismissal was planned. EMB believes very few people in Govt were privy to this decision – perhaps no one except Mirza and Ayub. … EMB believes unity now exists in country which has not prevailed since assassination Liaquat. Army is in firm position and will brook no nonsense. Whether Mohammad Ali will be able rise to demands of situation is not entirely certain and it is possible stronger leader such as Qayyum may take over at later date. EMB believes that in this favorable situation, US faces great opportunities develop closer relations with Pakistan and influence PAK policy toward settlement outstanding issues and toward firmer commitments to free world. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, April 20, 1953

Perhaps this is the true picture: the Governor-General, Mr. Ghulam Mohammed could never have dared to dismiss a Ministry which had appointed him, had he not have had the support of the Army. The Army would take its cue from the Defense Secretariat. Therefore this is in fact a coup d’etat by Mr. Iskander Mirza and the Army, which has nominated Mr. Mohammed Ali as its agent. The Army (which includes Mr. Iskander Mirza) would not have been encouraged to do this, if it was not certain that the new dispensation would have the support of the Americans, on whom today Pakistan is almost wholly dependent for its food requirements, and to carry on the ordinary expenses of the Administration. We can give this credit to the Army that it, like other common citizens, saw that the country was going to the dogs, that the prevailing regime had lost the confidence of the people, that it had not the capacity to remedy the existing state of affairs, and that at the same time it could not carry the people with it in any of its measures. The Army, too, may have started getting ideas after its contact with the people and the civil administration in Lahore. The Americans must have been in contact with the Army, and the coup d’etat must have had their blessings. The Americans must have found (i) That there was no point in butressing an unpopular Ministry. (ii) There there was no point in giving supplies to an incompetent Ministry which would dissipate those supplies. (iii) That there was no hope of getting appropriation from Congress unless it was satisfied that the Ministry in Pakistan had popular support and Army support. (iv) That an unpopular Ministry cannot succeed in inducing the people to accept its policy in international affairs, and hence such a Ministry is useless to the Americans if they want Pakistan to accept the international policy of America. That is to say an unpopular Ministry in Pakistan cannot deliver the goods and is therefore useless for the American global strategy. The change in the Administration is therefore a result of American plus Army maneuvers, born of the conviction, for which there is every justification, that Nazimuddin’s regime was thoroughly unpopular and incompetent. Letter from H.S. Suhrawardy, April 21, 1953

Reversing their earlier critical attitude toward Nazimuddin, [the Awami League] are now shedding crocodile tears over his removal from the Prime Ministership, asserting that GHULAM MUHAMMED and his cronies from the Punjab had determined to eliminate Nazimuddin because he supported the provision in the BPC Report for “parity” between East Bengal and the rest of Pakistan in representation in the National Legislature. Political, Press and Economic Developments for the Week Ending June 24, 1953, June 25, 1953

Constititional Coup of September 21, 1954

 

 

Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Sept. 22, 1954

Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Sept. 25, 1954

Pakistan Political Crisis, Sept. 25, 1954

Unsigned Top Secret Telegram #74, Sept. 25, 1954

Top Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Sept. 27, 1954

The “Constitutional Coup” in the Constituent Assembly, Oct. 2, 1954

Divestment of Governor General’s Powers by Constituent Assembly, Oct. 3, 1954

Reftel and other recent Karachi messages seem clearly imply new group may well try seize control GOP within next few months. Motives and character Consembly rebellious element indicate new govt would be more to right than current clique with conservative “old Moslem leaguers” in dominant position but with little chance of communist or other leftist influence. Dept concedes good possibility such group might be less cooperative, less friendly to United States than present PriMin. Secret Telegram from John Foster Dulles, Oct. 6, 1954

While agree change Govt would not increase Communist leftist influence, situation East Bengal different from that West Pakistan. Commies stronger East Bengal would exploit instability which might result. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Oct. 7, 1954

Mohammed Ayub Khan

 

 

The Department of Defense has reported that the Military Attache in Karachi has recently recommended the award of the Legion of Merit to the Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistan Army, General Mohammed AYUB Khan, stating that this recommendation is strongly supported by the Ambassador. Secret Telegram from Department of State, July 10, 1951

General Ayub stated that he had been talking to the leading politicians of Pakistan, and had told them that they must make up their mind to go whole-heartedly with the West. … He stated that the Pakistan Army will not allow the political leaders to get out of hand,and the same is true regarding the people of Pakistan. He stated that he realized that the Army was taking on a large responsibility, but that the Army’s duty was to protect the country. Secret Telegram from Lahore Consulate, Dec. 23, 1952

The Commander-in-Chief stated that he felt that there was no danger, from either politicians or the public, to overthrow the present Government, but in case there was such an attempt the Pakistan Army would immediately declare martial law and take charge of the situation. If the situation was critical, the Army would declare a Military Government in order to secure stability for Pakistan. He stated the Pakistan Army would not allow either politicians or the public to ruin the country. Top Secret Despatch from Lahore Consulate, Feb. 13, 1953

He said that the army was not interested in going into politics but that he had no intention of letting things get out of control. He said the army was a stabilizing force in Pakistan and that he would take no nonsense from the politicians. … I got the distinct impression from Ayub and from subsequent conversations with his senior officers who were in Lahore at the same time, that the Pakistan Army is definitely ready to take control should Civil Government break down, although they would be reluctant to do so. Memorandum of Conversation with General Mohammad Ayub Khan, Feb. 28, 1953

I took General Ayub for cocktails last evening and he is very much discouraged with our Number One guest who arrives in Washington this afternoon. He thinks there may be repercussions along the lines of your recent cables but expresses no alarm as far as the country as a whole is concerned. He is terribly confident of the ability of the Armed Services to step in any time as, if and when necessary. Secret Telegram from State Department, Oct. 14, 1954

NSC Briefing: Pakistan, Oct. 29, 1958  

Developments in Iran and Egypt are seriously affecting Pakistan popular position reference United States and we should now expect period of critical attitudes. This change may imperil parts of information program. Clearly any revelation of my private understanding with top GOP officials will create greatest embarrassment to them. … View GOP changing position it is most imperative that all discussion be halted bringing GOEB personnel to Washington for discussion this highly delicate operation. If information officer GOEB is later sent to US as Leader Specialist, he should be given leader itinerary treatment and should not repeat not be consulted about policy matters affecting cooperation East Pakistan. We must assume he does not know of my overall understanding. Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Nov. 5, 1951 

The World Muslim Conference (Motamar-e-Alam-e-Islam) in Karachi sponsored a meeting on February 23 in observance of “Hasan-el-Banna Day” which was presided over by the ex-Mufti of Jerusalem and addressed by El-Amiri and Syed Ramazan; the latter was termed the son-in-law of Hasan-el-Banna, the founder of the Muslim Brotherhood. Although the Secretary of the World Muslim Conference in conversation with officers of the Embassy evinced little interest in the formation of the Brotherhood, it is possible that the Motamar will support the embryonic organization. Formation of Muslim Brotherhood Branch in Pakistan, Feb. 28, 1952

The Embassy’s confidential source stated that the organization was almost still-born, with no activities and few members. It is believed, however, that a recent conference of world Muslim divines held in Karachi may have given a fillip to the branch. In addition to Mahmoud Sawwaf there were several Middle Eastern Akhwan leaders at the conference. Hassan-ul-Hudeibi, the president of the Brotherhood did not come from Cairo but sent as his deputy Allama Mahmood-uz-Zubairi of Yemen. As-Syed Baha El-Amiri, the erstwhile Syrian Ambassador to Pakistan, fired from his job as a result of differences with Colonel Shishakly, was at the conference as Syrian delegate. Before his diplomatic appointment, El-Amiri was an officer in the Syrian Brotherhood. Another Akhwan leader, Sheikh Syed Ramazan of Egypt was also in attendence.

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto

 

 

It will be noted that he was accused inter aliaof incitement of the masses to violate law and create disorder, violation of Secton 144, speaking so as to excite disaffection with the GOP, and disclosures of state affairs regarding weapons supply. Grounds for Detention of Bhutto, Dec. 4, 1968

MI officer told him that 24 officers arrested had been plotting to assassinate President Bhutto at Lahore People’s festival (revival of old Lahore horse show) when he attended as chief guest on March 31. Report of Military Assassination Plot Against President Bhutto, April 2, 1970

Central Intelligence Bulletin, Dec. 24, 1971

On February 7, I made a routine call on Rao Rashid, Deputy Director of Intelligence. … It was tragic, mused Rao, to have a man at the helm who despite all the blunders he committed, refused to step aside to the end, even though the nation was being destroyed. Political Notes, Feb. 17, 1972

Level of political violence and shrillness of political rhetoric has been on increase recently. Apart from Sind language riots, there have been disorderly political incidents in Lahore, Rawalpindi and elsewhere. Heightened political atmosphere has coincided with Bhutto’s greater involvement in grass-roots politics in wake Sind riots. While regime’s miscalculations and oppostion irresponsibility have contributed to new atmosphere, it seems also to reflect degree of return to pre-1971 “politics as usual.” Although disquieting, trend toward violence does not yet threaten Bhutto regime. Main present danger is that regime will be goaded into more repressive measures which could feed still more violence. Domestic Political Violence on Increase Aftermath Sind Disturbances, Aug. 4, 1972

Pakistan: Factionalism in Bhutto’s Party, July 1, 1975

Jamaat-e-Islami

 

 

Jamaat-e-Islami, which translated literally means “Islamic Organization,” is a Mullah-led, reactionary Islamic political party. Prior to partition the Jamaat, founded in 1941, was an inactive religious group without major interest in politics. However, since partition it has assumed an active part in politics and has gained strength, although it still plays a minor part in Pakistan politics. … At the annual meeting of Jamaat-e-Islami held on November 10 through 13, party leaders displayed an interesting combination of reactionary religious ideology, communist line propaganda and ideas of the welfare state. The meeting was attended by delegates from all over Pakistan. … Certainly not a powerful force in Pakistan politics today … the party is significant as an example of reactionary Islam in Pakistan politics. Annual Meeting of Jamaat-e-Islami, Pakistan, Nov. 28, 1951

The information contained in this report is from Ghulam Mohammed, Secty. Karachi Jamaat-i-Islami. He was anxious to get information on this organization into the hands of the American Embassy, he stated, because the organization “is misunderstood by foreign embassies and is the target of false propaganda from the Muslim League.” Jamaat-i-Islami (Islamic Party) was established in pre-partitioned India in 1941. Its main object is “revival of Islam, in both letter and spirit. We believe Islam is a complete code of life. We believe in democracy, with some changes regarding the limits of legislation. We believe that the government should be run by the people, but that the representatives are duty-bound to fulfill the laws written in the H.Q. Confidential Embassy notes, author unknown, circa 1951

Thirteen members of the Jamaat-e-Islami have been taken into custody by the Martial Law Authorities in Lahore including Maulana Maudoodi, Mian Tufail Mohammadand Maulana Amin Ahsan Islahi. Eighteen other Jamaat-e-Islami members were arrested outside the Lahore Martial Law area under the Provincial Public Safety Act. Comment: Maulana Maudoodi was one of the few prominent religious leaders who had escaped arrest during the general round-up of extremist Mullahs. He has now been arrested on the strength of a pamphlet which was just published in which Maudoodi tried to attack the Ahmadiyas by clever implications without indulging in open incitation. Martial Law authorities howwever felt that he had overstepped and thereupon arrested him. Weekly Summary of Political and Economic Events, March 26-April 1, 1953, April 2, 1953

Maulana Maudoodi, leader of Jamaat-i-Islami, arrested Mar 28 during anti-Ahmadiya agitation in Lahore, found guilty of complicity in riots by military tribunal May 11, and sentenced to death. Confidential Telegram from Karachi Embassy, May 12, 1953

Following the protest meeting and strike on the 14th occasioned by the sentence of Maulana Maudoodi reported in the Consulate’s despatch 96 dated May 14, 1953, an effort was made to organize a Maudoodi Day on May 22. Whereas the first demonstration was organized by Ulemas, the one scheduled for the 22nd was sparked by political opposition groups headed by the Awami League. Political, Press, and Economic Developments for the Week Ending May 27, 1953, May 28, 1953

Congen has no rpt no information to confirm GOI intelligence report that Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) groups planning attacks on Indian diplomats. Although prior to partition, JI supported Congress Party and opposed creation of Pakistan, JI has adopted anti-Indian position since partition. Its leaders, including recently retired Maulana Maudoodi, have advocated both moral and secular legality. Report of Planned Terrorist Attacks on Indian Diplomats, Nov. 7, 1972

Muslim Brotherhood

 

 

Memorandum of Conversation with Rev. Frank Llewellen, Aug. 16, 1951

Of the 22 defendants, two were sentenced to death and 10 were sentenced to 19 years. The drafting officer has spoken to a few lawyers in Lahoer regarding these sentences. All were of the opinion that the two sentenced to death would have their sentence commuted to 15 years, and the others to 5-8 years by the reviewing court. The Christian missionaries with whom the drafting officer has spoken in regards to the trial all feel satisfied that justice was done – even if the sentences are commuted. Confidential Despatch from Lahore Consulate, Dec. 21, 1951

Anti-Communist Program in East Pakistan

 

 

PURPOSE: To destroy Communist influence and develop a positive (counter) program based on the new national ideals of Pakistan. … Collaboration between the USIS and the Government of East Bengal is to be kept secret. To this end every attempt will be made to keep knowledge of the program confined to the three officers of the American Consulate and the three officers of the Government of East Bengal whose concerted effort is necesssary to the formulation of plans and policies.

OPERATIONAL THEMES: … To link communism with imperialism by demonstrating that the original meaning of the word is being used as a cloak for planned conquest. … To show the communists as anti-God and therefore a threat to the continued existence of the Muslim world as a free and independent religio-political entity. … To promote the Islamic socio-economic concept under which there will be freedom and dignity for the individual and which will provide for the elimination of economic disparities and inequities. Coordinated Program for Combatting Communism in East Bengal, Aug. 7, 1951

Re Leader-Grant for either GOP or GOEB official, Department merely indicated availability of Grant in relation to request contained in Dacca Despatch 13; with assumption Embassy retaining actual perogative of nominating whomever desirable. If Embassy does desire send any official as straight leader-grantee, special project will not be discussed in Washington as you recommend. Secret Telegram from State Department, Nov. 16, 1951

Department will not invite GOEB official for purpose discussing subject your Despatch 13. However, ordinary leader-grant can at some future date be offered a Dacca journalist or even GOEB official, under normal Embassy selection processes. Secret Telegram from Secretary of State, Nov. 17, 1951

Secret Telegram from Karachi Embassy, Feb. 23, 1952

Confidential Telegram from Dacca Consulate, Feb. 28, 1952

Chief Minister Nurul Amin attended a meeting of the Mymensingh District Muslim League workers on June 14 and addressed the conference at some length. He reviewed the origins of, and government action during the Dacca riots in February, and announced that he had conclusive proof that these groups of people, viz. communists, other foreign agents, and political mal-contents had conspired to subvert the state from within. As for the communists, he quoted from a Calcutta communist paper which boasted of the party’s assisting the Language Movement in the right direction. As to the foreign agents, he dramatically flourished a secret document which he said was a circular of February 12 of an organization with headquarters outside Pakistan calling upon its members in East Pakistan to exploit the Language Movement. The name of the organization he withheld in the public interest. As for the disgruntled politicians, he observed that they are well known, and their motive in mising into the Language Movement and the riots was to split East and West Pakistan (he did not refer to the United Bengalers as such, but he evidently had them in mind). Confidential Telegram from Dacca Consulate, June 21, 1952

Confidential Telegram from New Delhi Embassy, Feb. 27, 1953

Telegram from New Delhi Embassy, May 6, 1954

Political, Press and Economic Developments for the Week Ended May 21, 1953, May 22, 1953

Telegram from Karachi Embassy, May 26, 1954

Political Developments for the Two Weeks Ending December 16, 1953, Dec. 17, 1953

Meanwhile there remains somewhat uncomfortably in my mind real concern over the Governor General’s attitude and approach to affairs these days. … I certainly do not see how running around East Bengal smashing Commies has much relation to what happened to the League in that province. Of course I see where a good Commie campaign might help disrupt the UF — but then what? Governor’s Rule? Martial law? The League has some hard lessons to learn. I hope the price won’t be too high or the instruction period too long. Secret Telegram from State Department, April 27, 1954  

Gov. told me today will outlaw commie party East Bengal tomorrow. Said requested authorization from Center mid-June but only answer to date is under consideration. Thus, following abortive commie attempt few days ago blow up main bridge into Dacca he has decided to proceed [unilaterally]. Center as yet uninformed but will receive telegram from Gov. simultaneously with announcement of demarche. Confidential Telegram from Dacca Consulate, July 6, 1954

The subject of U.S. military aid to Pakistan remained the dominant political theme during the week. On December 19, 1953, the Government of Pakistan presented a note to the Soviet Embassy in Karachi replying to the Soviet note of November 30 which demanded “clarification” of the press reported on the subject of “American military air bases” in Pakistan. … The Indian National Congress party’s drive to arouse public opinion in India against US military aid to Pakistan evoked a bitter reaction in Pakistan. Public opinion media referred to it as a “hate campaign” and held it to be particularly significant as it was government sponsored. Weekly Summary of Political Events for Week Ending December 24, 1953, Dec. 24, 1953

 

Matta Riot

  

 

 

 

 

Copyright Paul Wolf, 2003-2004. No copyright to original government works. For educational use only.

APPENDIX B-PSY OPS

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    OSS – The Psychology of WarMORALE OPERATIONS BRANCH

Etna Campaign “Beans”
Italian Crisis Campaign “Cripes”
Evil Eye Campaign “Jinx”
Save Train Campaign “Scram”
W For Why Campaign “Whiz”
Hitler Campaign “Heel”
Scorched Earth Campaign “Heat”

(Note: these were apparently the first major M.O. campaigns. As the war progressed there would be many more.) Code Names, Aug. 10, 1943

 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

During peace time there is ample reason for differences of opinion upon the philosophical question as to whether the end justifies the means. Under normal conditions many of those engaged in M.O. operations would question the religious or ethical propriety of committing acts which in themselves are considered unmoral merely because they serve what is considered a useful or desireable end. In a war, however, which threatens the very existence of our way of life, our civilization, our religious, ethical, educational and other institutions, the end becomes all important. Unless the end is achieved, nothing results but the extinction of our way of living and consequent slavery. It is for this reason that there is virtual universal agreement among all people in our country, both clerical and lay, that the bombing of civilians, though to be avoided whenever possible, is a necessary and inevitable result of all-out-war in order to achieve the earliest possible termination of hostilities and the rebuilding of a peaceful world. Likewise, the general principle underlying M.O. operations is that however unorthodox and distasteful to us during peace time, any means should be employed if it will contribute appreciably to the collapse of enemy resistance. Viewed in the broad perspective of human progress, the greatest good will result from the early and utter defeat of the enemy by whatever means it may be necessary to employ. Chapter 3: General Principles (context unknown — all I know is what is apparent from document markings, found in RG 226 Entry 92 mixed in with Italy MO) 

Note below that it’s not always clear whether a proposed morale operation was ever approved or implemented. 

 

 

 

MORALE OPERATIONS BY COUNTRY 
 MORALE OPERATIONS BY COUNTRY (separate webpages)
 
Germany [77 documents]
 
 

Copyright Paul Wolf, 2004. For educational use only. No copyright to original government works.

MODUS OPERANDI

Provisional Basic Field Manual
Use of Rumors
Bribery, Blackmail and Subsidy
Forged Documents
Airborne Leaflets
Poison Pen Letters
Coordination with OWI
Planting False Information in the News Media
Black Radio
Motion Pictures and the Arts
Other

Other Morale Operations were designed to encourage resistance movements, by creating the appearance of an organized resistance where there was none. Newspapers and flyers were produced. “Black radio” stations purported to be broadcasting from within enemy territory. Leaflets urged industrial sabotage and explained “simple sabotage” of railways, automobiles, etc. Graffitti was also used to create the impression of an organized resistance.

In its brief history, the Morale Operations Branch was led a succession of individuals including Frederick Oechsner, Kenneth D. Mann, Charles P. Healy, Patrick Dolan, Morton Bodfish, and Herbert S. Little.

Morale Operations used “black” or false propaganda spread by a variety of creative and devious means. Subversive rumors were spread by agents or planted in news stories. Leaflets were scattered from airplanes, suddenly appearing on the streets of cities as if they had been casually discarded. Some urged resistance or gave sabotage instructions. Others were intented to “generate panic.” For example, forged air raid instructions dropped on Japan urged people to flee when they heard the air raid sirens, adding to the confusion and panic generated by the raids. Other forgeries included currencies, train tickets, postage stamps, and military orders and manuals.

Italy [32 documents]

Europe and the Balkans [30 documents]

North Africa and the Middle East [5 documents]

Japan [61 documents]

China, Burma and India [44 documents] Indonesia [17 documents]Soviet Union [4 documents]
MODUS OPERANDI

Psychological warfare, as the term is used by the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff … comprises all moral and physical means other than orthodox military operations which tend to destroy the will and ability of the enemy to resist, to deprive him of support of allies or neutrals and to increase in our own troops and allies the will to victory. The implements of psychological warfare are: open propaganda, subversion, special operations (sabotage, guerrilla warfare, espionage), political and cultural pressures, economic pressures. The principal effects sought are persuasion, sympathy, terrorization, confusion, division and physical interference. These operations, ancient in origin, are modernly employed, notably by Italy, Germany, the Soviet Union and other principal powers. The programs are planned more or less centrally in all nations, but executed by a variety of agencies. Memorandum on Intelligence for Psychological Warfare, by General John Magruder, Feb. 1943

Contact with underground movements through Foreign Nationalities Branch, through Labor Desk, SI, through independent emigres in this country (Mrs. Rado), through eventual MO Representatives in London, Stockholm, etc. Bribery and subsidies, maintain contact names index file, and work through MO Foreign Representatives and their agents. Blackmail — maintain contact names index file and work through MO Foreign Representatives and their agents. Counterfeiting. Currency reference for Mr. Healy’s James Hecksher and Mr. Shubart, Bank of the Manhattan Company, regarding foreign currencies, ration cards, passports, personal papers of the enemy prisoners or dead. Rumor and whispering campaigns — see special memo on these. Abduction — see Sedgwick proposals. Chain letters with cupidity, superstition and fear as main employed motives. Poisoning (tricks and toy gadget) instructions as to how to make or use these things in enemy occupied or enemy countries, actual distribution. Assassination by suggestion or agents. Illness and epidemics by suggestion or contagion. Diver’s manipulations: black market in neutral countries, discrediting by cartoons (Artsybasheff and Szyk). Possibility for MO Activity, by Frederick Oechsner, April 21, 1943

Instrumentality and media: open propaganda (radio, press, films); subversive: black propaganda, rumor spreading, “poison pen”, bribery, etc., physical destruction, guerrilla operations, etc., aimed to induce confusion, uncertainty, and fear; combat psychological warfare: activities carried on within the military ranks (radio, prisoner indoctrination, panic-production, etc.); economic pressure; diplomatic pressure; social contacts. Psychological warfare tactics: fraternization or neutralization, conversion (appeals to belief), soporifics (alleviation of anxieties), appeasement (appeals to expediency); disruption or attack, terror (aims to frighten), vilification (aims to undermine self-respect), confusion (aims to stir up conflicts between groups, over ideologies) Factors to be Considered in Planning Psychological Warfare Strategy, Nov. 3, 1942

The Operational Use of MO Material, circa 1944

The Morale Operations Branch should function largely as a planning unit and must rely upon SO and SI in the field for the activation of its plans. PW Operations – Future Operations as Affected by Current Military and Political Events, August 9, 1943

Provisional Basic Field Manual

Provisional Basic Field Manual — Morale Operations, Dec. 21, 1943 (first 36 pages)

I have but one suggestion to make, which I believe will be an improvement by way of eliminating the present ambiguity in the text in the use of the word “Subversion”. The word is used in three places … without other qualifying or modifying language. In each such instance it is immediately followed by a description of activities which are instantly recognized as those of the SO Branch. However, at two places in the text … the word “Subversion” is followed by the expression “other than physical”, and here too immediately follows a description of the duties and activities of SO. Memorandum from Charles Pratt Healy on Provisional Basic Field Manual, Psychological Warfare, May 24, 1943

Subversion operations, other than physical, will be conducted within enemy countries, within enemy-occupied or controlled countries and within other areas where action or counter-action may be effective against the enemy. Such operations have for their purpose: inciting or spreading dissension, creating confusion and disorder, encouraging and supporting resistance and revolt against the enemy and the enemy government. The means (other than open propaganda) for carrying out the above operations are: by rumors and black propaganda; by contact with and manipulation of individuals and underground groups. Excerpts from “Provisional Basic Field Manual — Psychological Warfare” with regard to MO, May 1943

The OSS Planning Group in its meeting Monday, May 31, discussed the desirability of the preparation by the MO Branch of basic doctrine for MO operations. … The Planning Group also suggested that the preparation of such doctrine by the MO staff should be done in close liaison with the Psychological Warfare Staff, which it is believed has already done some work on such a project. MO Doctrine, June 1, 1943

Use of Rumors

There are tens of thousands of rumors in the OSS files. Those listed in the country-specific webpages are either from sustained campaigns, or are novel in some way. Rumors were designed to achieve long-range MO objectives, but were normally related to current events. Rumor themes were orchestrated by the “MOPO Committee” and coordinated with rumor campaigns of the British Political Warfare Executive (PWE). The British referred to rumors as “sibs”.

The following are the more important strategic uses of rumor for subversive purposes: Dividing the enemy by means of fostering distrust and suspicion between enemy allies, the enemy and collaborationists or within the enemy population itself. Terrorization by means of circulating rumors of a terrifing character. Certain rumors of this type when properly timed may be employed to precipitate panic. Arouse unwarranted optimism. This strategy is most effective in order to pave the way for the greateest psychological impact of impending defeat upon the enemy. Thus hopes are raised only to be precipitiously dashed. Deception. Here rumors are circulated primarily with the aim of deceiving enemy intelligence. Rumor Lecture for MO Course, circa 1943

The Criteria of a Successful Rumor, June 12, 1943 (12 pages)

Pre-releases through sib agents, Feb. 26, 1944

Pre-releases through sib agents, Feb. 24, 1944

Open Channels for Rumor Dissemination, et. al., Oct. 1, 1943

Planned Rumors, July 30, 1943

Planned Rumors, Aug. 11, 1943

Rumors for Dissemination, Dec. 7, 1943

Sib Committee, Oct. 11, 1943

For your information, I am sending you a duplicated copy of the minutes of the first “Sib” Committee meeting. (“Sib” is British term for “rumor.”) This new committee is composed of the several Area of Operations Officers of the M.O. Branch, or their designated representatives. They meet twice a week and concern themselves soley at these meetings with framing of rumors to be sent to our field offices for dissemination. Memorandum from Lt. Patrick Dolan to Lt. Col. Edward W. Gamble, Sept. 3, 1943

5th Meeting of “SIB” Committee, Sept. 15, 1943

Sibs, Dec. 6, 1943

Rumors

Airborne Leaflets

At present the R.A.F. will have nothing to do with the dropping of black printed matter the reasons being (a) that any of the crews captured in possession of such material woukd probably be shot and (b) S.O.E. is afraid that if such stuff were dropped it would lodge in trees, on roofs, etc., and give away the show. Memorandum from Rae Smith to Patrick Dolan, July 31, 1943

MO Progress Report 16 – 28 March 1945

Please send us by the truck that is returning to Rome, one bomb fully packed, less explosives, of CORNFLAKES, one bomb, fully packed, less explosives of PIG IRON. Memorandum of Robert M. Allen, April 27, 1945

Coordination with the Office of War Information

Recommendation: That permission be requested from S.I. and R&A to release to O.W.I recent reports on anti-Fascist activities in Italy. O.W.I does not have an intelligence set-up comparable to O.S.S. and we can further M.O.’s aims by giving them some of our intelligence. The reports might be given them for background information or for quotation — in the latter case, the source must not be given. Furthermore, a great number of the latest reports on Italy bear directly on O.W.I’s field. Secret Memorandum from V. Taylor to MOPO Committee, June 23, 1943

To hasten dissemination of this propaganda, it is now proposed to fake a leaflet, supposedly spread by the Italian Underground, and to hand the text of the fake leaflet to OWI for broadcasting. In this way, we’ll reach our target quicker. Secret Memorandum from Eugene P. Warner to MOPO Committee, June 23, 1943

You will be interested to know that we have struck a deal with Doob of O.W.I. whereby he now is able to plant selected rumor items in O.W.I. for newscasts. … We are continuing to supply Doob with a considerable amount of material and are greatly encouraged over the use of it. Incidentally, the programs are rebroadcast by B.B.C. Naturally this arrangement with Doob is on a purely informal and unofficial level and should be kept within the family. OWI Aid in Dissemination of Rumors, Oct. 4, 1943

NAME

NAME

OWI Leaflets, circa 1943

NAME

Messages Home From Italian Soldiers Campaign, circa 1943

Rumor Policy – Russia-Japan, April 10, 1945

Planting False Information in the News Media

Dr. Embree has just passed me a note informing me that he has accidentally learned that OFF is in the process of preparing a report in which they intend to make suggestions regarding what the American public should be told about Japan. He expresses the feeling that the suggestions may be quite naive and may show a rather shallow understanding of the complexity of the Japanese-U.S. relations. Is there any instrumentality by which information on foreign countries coordinated by COI may be communicated to OFF for domestic consumption? Memorandum from Robert C. Tryon, Chief, Psychology Division, to Mr. Baxter, Jan. 29, 1942

The British say that they do not like plants in British open channels and seldom use them. Occasionally the rumor will make a circuit and come home to roost in the form of a story in the newspapers, but there is very little direct implantation. Memorandum from Frederick Oechsner to Robert H. Knapp, Oct. 18, 1943

Confirming our conversation of this date I suggest that an inquiry be made relative to the foreign circulation of such periodicals as the New York Times, Lifeand Time Magazine, Armyand Navy Journal, Inventors Journal, etc. It is obvious that if these periodicals are dispatched by airmail to Lisbon, for example, the German authorities there will immediately relay the periodicals to the proper authorities in Berlin. If it is possible; if it has not already been done; and if it is within our province I suggest that we could utilize this situation to our advantate by “planting” articles in such foreign edition for the benefit of enemy consumption. Interoffice Memo From Maj. Gen. George H. White, Jan. 18, 1944

Motion Pictures and the Arts

Communication Channels (1), June 8, 1943

The motion picture is one of the most powerful propaganda weapons at the disposal of the United States. Motion pictures are an unparalleled instructional medium – they can present new facts concerning important problems on which peopke are ignorant and on which they ought to be informed; they can clarify complicated problems on which people are confused. Motion pictures are a potent force in attitude formation, and attitudes are the basis of action and morale. Motion pictures can stimulate or inhibit action. Motion pictures can contribute to the building and maintenance of morale by: (1) Dispelling doubt and uncertainty, and allaying anxiety. (2) Providing a unique and valuable form of recreation. Motion pictures can orient the individual to affairs beyond his personal experience by providing opportunities for vicarious participation. Newsreels, for example, are the best medium for giving the remote civilian the “feel” of front line combat. The Motion Picture as a Weapon of Psychological Warfare, circa 1943

Herewith is a report outlining the Musac Project for recording songs in German to be played to German troops over a black radio station in ETO. This work is being done at the request of our London office. Musac Project, July 13, 1944

Your increasing awareness of the relative importance of the artist in your program is encouraging. How much else you’ve learned of their problems – I don’t know. Setting an artist down in a strange country with adequate art supplies is not in itself going to produce art for you. OWI combat team in Assam – with all their efficiency learned that the hard way. And the need for accuracy is greater with us than OWI. Memorandum from Sam Berman, June 22, 1945

Bribery, Blackmail and Subsidy

Bribery, Blackmail and Subsidy, July 16, 1943

Comments on Implementary Course, July 17, 1943

The Bazooka – Secret Weapon of Psychological Warfare

Ordinance Materiel for Psychological Warfare Purposes, March 31, 1943

Plan for a Subversive Campaign Involving U.S. Weapons, March 24, 1943

One Man “Tank-Busting” Gun is Newest U.S. Secret Weapon, March 28, 1943

Other

Poison Scissors, Aug. 20, 1943

Psychological Use of Occupational Money, Feb. 23, 1943

Atabrine as a Weapon of Psychological Warfare, May 10, 1943

Unsorted

Proposed plan for classifion of MO Matierial at Co. C Packing Station, April 2, 1945

Mr. Rae Smith has suggested that to avoid any confusion with the British, who are also using the code “Etna” for one of their campaigns, the M.O. Branch adopt American slang tags for its campaigns. Accordingly, listed below are the new code names for all M.O. Campaigns:

 

 

Etna Campaign “Beans”
Italian Crisis Campaign “Cripes”
Evil Eye Campaign “Jinx”
Save Train Campaign “Scram”
W For Why Campaign “Whiz”
Hitler Campaign “Heel”
Scorched Earth Campaign “Heat”

 

The copies of your manuscript on the above subject have been received and distributed to the several members of the M.O. staff. Planning Unorthodox Military Tasks for M.O., June 7, 1943 [manuscript not found]