The situation at the Pakistani - Afghan border is becoming increasingly problematic; where U.S. forces were forced to go back recently because Pakistani soldiers opened fire on them, they now decided to shoot back.

According to the U.S. military, Pakistani soldiers opened fire at two U.S. helicopters that crossed the border in order to strike against the Taliban and Al Qaeda hiding in Pakistan’s tribal region.

Pakistani soldiers then opened fire at the helicopters, the U.S. army said, after which ground forces accompanying the helis on their mission fired warning shots (in the air). Instead of backing down, Pakistani forces fired back.

The Pakistani military, meanwhile, says the exact opposite; according to them Pakistani forces fired warning shots when they saw the helicopters at which moment the helicopters started firing at the Pakistani troops. They, then, fired back.

Whatever the case, it is for the first time that the two sides have exchanged fire. This is, considering the fact that they are allies, significant. It is a sign that the situation at the border could very well escalate; unless the U.S. gives in. It is unlikely that Pakistan will give in, because it cannot do so; President Asif Ali Zardari has to present himself as a strong, determined leader, willing to say ‘no’ to the United States. If he does not, he may very well be ousted sooner rather than later.