[The cartoon controversy] has struck a chord of public anger. The spark was provided by the cartoons, but it’s already political, and the target now is the government.

The military has mishandled the situation.

The result has been a lack of trust and the situation has deteriorated instead of improving.

In effect, the army is confined to fortified bases while the Taliban are filling the vacuum outside.

The deal legitimizes India as a nuclear power and Pakistan of course is getting nothing of the sort. It has left Pakistan feeling exposed.