While conceding that the recognition of Israel is a very contentious issue, President Pervez Musharraf has, nonetheless, urged the Pakistani media to initiate an open and non-emotional debate on the issue. He has justified raising the issue on the grounds that Pakistan does not have any dispute with Israel and it need not be more Catholic than the Pope. The later remark refers to the fact that the Palestinians, the direct party to the dispute, have recognised Israel. The president also wants Pakistanis to review the issue on the basis of national interest. However, he has let it be known that any decision in the matter would be taken in light of the consensus at home, consultations with the Arab countries and the evolving situation in the Middle East.

The statement has caused furore in many quarters and the opposition parties, particularly the MMA, has threatened to launch a mass movement to oust him from power if he goes ahead with recognition. This article proposes to take up a number of issues: what is the significance of Musharraf’s statement at this point; what are the arguments, which militate against recognition; what are the benefits accruing from recognising Israel; finally, what would be the timing of recognition, if Pakistan does decide to go ahead with it?[...]