Obama trip to Pakistan now in jeopardy

NEW YORK, May 08: President Barack Obama's intended sojourn to Pakistan is now in jeopardy. Washington suspects Pakistan's complicity in providing sanctuary to Osama bin Laden who was killed last Sunday in the garrison city of Abbottabad. Pakistan vehemently denies the allegation. The intended Pakistan trip was to soothe the frustration and anger in that country in the wake of Obama's visit to India last year. The intended trip is still open. If Obama makes the trip it would indicate Washington's continued support to Islamabad. Cancelling the trip would point to US abandoning Pakistan, " a country that is not only integral in dealing with terrorism but also play a key role in the US troop drawdown in neighbouring Afghanistan". Outpouring of anger is on the rise in Pakistan. Senior army officials are clamouring for the resignation of army chief Kayani and ISI drector Shuja alleging they have outlived their utility. Services of both the officers have been extended. The men on the streets are seething with anger. They say the military's inexplicable lapse in not detecting Osama's presence is outrageous. And equally detestable is the fact that Pakistan was powerless to prevent the unilateral raid by US elite force - the Navy Seals. Pakistan receives billions of dollars of American financial assistance. If this is stopped Pakistan will be in grave peril. Officials on both sides are suggesting to move cautiously and not to rush to any hasty decision.