Talking to Musharraf before it's too late

Pakistan's military dictator has worked himself and his friends into a tight corner. The country's geographic location, adjoining Afghanistan, Iran, India and China, makes it one of America's most important allies.
Musharraf's reckless political trajectory is turning him into one of the Bush administration's most dangerous partners.
More than early-morning crisis management will be needed to keep this very difficult situation from turning drastically worse. After eight years of authoritarianism and broken promises, Musharraf has forfeited the support he once enjoyed among ordinary Pakistanis, educated professionals and even fellow military officers.
More ---International Herald Tribune