Context
Media reports indicate that Prominent Pakistani Taliban commanders have held meetings with Al Qaeda leaders and Afghan Taliban on November 27 in Wanna – South Waziristan, and on December 11 in Datta Khel – North Waziristan. Reports further indicate that Al Qaeda and Afghan Taliban leaders tried to convince Pakistan Taliban to set aside their differences and assist in their fight against US and NATO forces in Afghanistan.
The gatherings appeared to have taken place as US drone strikes were on hold in the aftermath of the November NATO Mohmand strike, and were attended by senior Al Qaeda leader Abu Yahya al-Libi, as well as de facto head of Haqqani network, Siraj-ud-din Haqqani. Other leaders reported to have attended included Hakimullah Mehsud and his deputy Waliur Rehman of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Spokesperson for TTP, Ehsanullah Ehsan stated that Maulvi Nazir and Haji Gul Bahdur, that Pakistan considers as Good Taliban, also attended. Afghan Taliban were also represented by Zabiullah Mujahid and Maulvi Sangeen.
The congregations has produced the following outcomes:
- A 4 member consultative body was formed, know as Shura-e-Murakeba
- Avoid the unnecessary killings and kidnappings for ransom
- End attacks on Pakistani military and refocus efforts on US led coalition in Afghanistan
