Sudan's dilemma

Washington and London are making a new rod for their backs. Sudan is their latest problem. They are ratcheting up pressure on the country, accusing its government of ignoring and even abetting alleged atrocities in the western province of Darfur. This is a bad idea.

It is unlikely that the mounting pressure will bear fruit any time soon. Tribal complexities lie at the heart of the disturbing problem. The reverse is true. Pressure will militate the Khartoum government against any formula imposed from outside to alleviate the reported plight of the Darfuris. National pride is at stake.

Meanwhile, with their international credibility dented, especially in this region, the United States and Britain are triggering more misgivings about their seeming concern over the situation in Darfur. ... It is imperative for them to stop calling the shots for Khartoum, which must demonstrate more resolve and transparency in grappling with the crisis dragging on in its backyard. -- The Egyptian Gazette, Cairo, Egypt