A discussion with
Imtiaz Gul
Executive Director
Centre for Research and Security Studies, Islamabad

Commentary by
Arif Ansar
Chief Analyst and CEO
PoliTact

Introduced and moderated by
Shuja Nawaz
Director, South Asia Center
Atlantic Council

Pakistan's new government has yet to announce its long-awaited new security strategy. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, on January 28, announced the formation of a four-member committee to pursue dialogue with the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Many expected the government to abandon efforts to bring the TTP to the table after similar moves failed last year. The TTP, while expressing interest in dialogue, has continued violent attacks within Pakistan, leading Prime Minister Sharif to condition peace talks on a cessation of attacks. The prime minister continues to entertain a military option, stating, "We have to win this fight, whether by dialogue or by war." What are the conditions under which the military of Pakistan can and will tackle the internal insurgency? Is the civilian component of the impending plan ready? Imtiaz Gul, an Islamabad-based expert will review Pakistan's likely counterterrorism strategy and its potential for success.

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