Whatever their differences the Indian and Pakistani governments both seem rational and neither really wants war. Unfortunately, insane Islamic terrorist groups in Pakistan, such as those involved in the outrageous suicide attack on the Indian Parliament, are anything but rational, and will strike India again and again in an attempt to provoke a response, and a major war.

The only real way out of this very, very dangerous situation is for the Pakistani militray to crack down, as brutally as necessary, and destroy these Islamic terrorist groups.

Ironically, the best way the US can help Pakistan is to immediately pull US troops out of Pakistan, create some distance and political cover for the Pakis to do what they must, without appearing to be Washington's lackey.