Caught in the Crossfire: The Inside Story of Pakistan’s Secret Services

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The author believes that all international strategic manoeuvrings in the region, mostly rely on information that is entirely fabricated and portrayed by Pakistan’s adversaries to harm its national interests. In his opinion, knowing a realistic picture of Pakistan and the Pakistan army in its true perspective, is important not only for people inside the country but also for the international community, so that they may pursue their relationships and cooperation in the region based on ground realities. Considering his personal experiences in security and counterintelligence operations during last four decades, he thought of writing this book. He believes that his narrative provides a virtuous material for analysts to ponder history through an authentic premise and predict futuristic security scenarios based on a realistic perspective. To present his arguments with facts and figures, in a cohesive manner, the author has presented the narrative in shape of a memoir of his lifelong experiences in a cohesive manner, taking full measure of the individuals, institutions and organisations that made a strong impression on his life. During the process, an effort has been made to take the readers along the same curve he followed so that they can clearly grasp the dynamics that drives the life of a Pakistani soldier.

About the Author

Brigadier Naseem’s association with the Pakistan Army and it’s premier intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), spreads over four decades (1969-2010). Besides full-time regimental soldiering in an elite Self-Propelled Artillery regiment of Pakistan army, he served with ISI for more than two decades. His career in the army and intelligence grew side by side all along these years, giving him ample opportunities to experience the best in both the fields during peace as well as in combat operations. Brigadier Naseem’s career in the field of Security and intelligence started as a field intelligence operative assigned to highly sensitive roles in the organisation and gradually grew in rank and appointments to shoulder higher responsibilities at national and international levels. Incidentally, his multiple tenures in ISI coincided with some extraordinary security related developments in the region, with far-reaching fallouts on Pakistan’s national security hypothesis. Most significant amongst these major events, have been the Russian invasion of Afghanistan (1979 - 1989), the Afghan civil war (1990 - 2001) and subsequently, the incident of 9/11 which completely altered the international security patterns, particularly in South Asia. It is important to note that these developments in Afghanistan had direct bearing on Pakistan’s national security, and therefore, had dragged its complete security apparatus, in this theatre of war. Handling of unending security issues with India has been amongst his routine areas of responsibilities. Brigadier Naseem is considered as one of the few hardcore intelligence operatives known as authentic witnesses to some of the most critical military developments in the region during past few decades. Fighting the war as an invisible warrior for nearly 23 years; making surreptitious break-ins, operating under a tornado of live bullets, sneaking out required intelligence from enemies strong holds while denying the same to the opponents, has been his story that makes him exclusive to listen. Additionally, a golden opportunity to serve Pakistan as a diplomat abroad for almost three and a half years in Dubai, helped him broaden his outlook on major geo-strategic and geo-political manoeuvrings in the region and at international levels, particularly in the field of security. This opening also helped him to understand how international relationships are built, maintained and even exploited by the vested interests, to gain the benefit of the circumstances. Brigadier Naseem’s post-retirement venture in Private Security industry in Dubai, UAE as an entrepreneur for last about nine years, has been a great support and temptation for him to successfully continue his security-related work. The book by itself, is a reflection of his strong professional background in security and intelligence work, with an absorbing narration of military history of South Asia, with particular reference to the security challenges for Pakistan.

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4.2 out of 5

84.00% of customers are satisfied

5.0 out of 5 stars A breath of fresh air for military history and espionage enthusiasts

A. · 13 October 2024

In Caught in the Crossfire, author Naseem Akhtar Khan takes us under his wing, guiding us through the political and military history of the Indo-Pak region while sharing the intricate details of his own life journey. From his humble beginnings at a ‘taat’ school in Kashmir to becoming one of the longest-serving ISI operatives in the organization’s history, Khan offers readers a unique perspective. As a fan of real-life spy stories and a military history enthusiast, this book is a breath of fresh air for me as a Pakistani. It is the first time we get to read about the Pakistani military and its secret service from the pen of one of its own heroes. I highly recommend this book to all military history and espionage enthusiasts eager to learn about the power struggles behind the scenes and how Pakistan's secret service works tirelessly to defend the motherland from conspiracies orchestrated by both its enemies and so-called allies.

5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating and thought provoking - A Must Read!

M. · 20 September 2024

The media could not be loaded. Caught in the Crossfire - The inside story of Pakistan’s Secret Services by Mr. Khan is a gripping and deeply personal memoir, offering a rare window into the life of a Pakistan Army and Intelligence officer.What I loved most about this book is how grounded and sincere it feels. Mr Khan’s storytelling is both vivid and authentic, offering readers a glimpse into his personal struggles, triumphs, and the challenges he faced while serving his country. He takes the reader on an emotional journey from his humble beginnings to the heart of Pakistan's military and intelligence operations.The book not only inspires with a story of perseverance and sacrifice but also provides ordinary readers with a clear understanding of the complex geopolitical and security challenges Pakistan faces. Mr. Khan offers a firsthand account of how the Pakistan Army and its intelligence agency work to counter these threats, blending personal struggle with insightful commentary on national defense.Rich with emotion, history, and reflection, this book is a compelling, informative, and inspiring read for anyone interested in the personal and strategic realities of military service.

1.0 out of 5 stars What a waste of money!

a. · 25 August 2024

It's a former Pakistan Army and ISI officer's memoire. However, it doesn't tell anything about the ISI. It's the kind of book published by the army' book club. A total waste of money because better work has been published on the organisation by Hans J. Kiesling. This is neither academic nor journalistic and doesn't explain anything about Pakistan's primary intelligence agency. I am surprised at the publishers because the book needed serious editing. No one even bothered to check that the aircraft shot down by the Pakistan Air Force was India's MiG-21 and not MiG-19 which is how the incident was repeatedly mentioned in the book. Also, there is a lot of needless repetition.

5.0 out of 5 stars A resonating read

U. · 1 September 2024

This book offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a former Pakistan Army and ISI officer, chronicling the challenges and sacrifices inherent in soldiering and intelligence work. The author's personal journey, from humble beginnings to a prestigious military role, showcases remarkable resilience and determination of a true soldier.The book offers a mind-blowing insight into Pakistan national security paradigm. Continued military expeditions and power politics by the regional and international power-brokers during past few decades are vividly captured through firsthand experiences. Exposure of the complex web of Pakistan’s enemies, both external and internal, is a mind-blowing revelation. A very carefully worded message of caution to avoid being trapped through the conspiracies, is of immense value for strategists to ponder.With its honesty and depth, this memoir stands out as a poignant and valuable contribution to military literature, resonating with readers.

5.0 out of 5 stars A deeply personal and insightful look into the military and intelligence world

A. · 27 August 2024

This memoir touched me deeply. It offers not just a rare glimpse, but an intimate window into the life and soul of a former Pakistan Army and ISI officer. What makes this book truly special is its deeply personal narrative, allowing us to walk alongside the author through the immense challenges, sacrifices, and complexities that define the lives of those who serve in Pakistan's intelligence and defense sectors.Reading this book, I felt as though I was not just learning about the shadowed world of intelligence work, but truly feeling the weight of its responsibilities, the isolation, and the high-stakes decisions that these officers face daily. The author’s reflections are so candid and relatable that I found myself deeply moved by his experiences. His narrative made this intricate and often intimidating world of Pakistan's secret services more accessible, even to someone who has never been close to such a life.What struck me most was the author’s incredible journey, starting from a small taat school in a remote village, to rising through the ranks and reaching one of the highest positions in the military. This isn’t just a story of professional success; it’s a testament to the resilience, determination, and unwavering sense of duty that can propel someone from the humblest beginnings to the pinnacle of their career. It reminded me of the power of perseverance and the quiet strength that lies within all of us, often waiting for the right moment to rise to the surface.As the narrative unfolds, it’s not just the personal story that captivates you, but also the way the author captures the pulse of history itself. Through his eyes, we witness major life events in the region that shaped the world: from the tumultuous 70s and 80s, marked by the Soviet-Afghan War and its aftermath, through the political upheavals and military conflicts of the 90s, and into the complexities of the modern-day. These events are not just recounted as distant history, but are brought to life through the author’s firsthand experiences, making the reader feel as if they are right there, living through these pivotal moments. The close eye with which these historical shifts are observed adds a rich, contextual layer to the personal narrative, making it both profound and enlightening.I was particularly captivated by how the book delves into the emotional and ethical dilemmas the author faced, along with the personal experiences that have shaped him. The toll this life takes on an individual is palpable, and it made me reflect on the often unseen sacrifices made by those who serve.The author’s honesty, his willingness to lay bare his personal journey, both the triumphs and the heartaches, makes this book not just a memoir, but a deeply human story that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a heartfelt and valuable addition to the genre of military and intelligence memoirs, and I’m grateful to have had the chance to read it.

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Caught in the Crossfire: The Inside Story of Pakistan’s Secret Services

Name: Caught in the Crossfire: The Inside Story of Pakistan’s Secret Services
Brand: Pen & Sword Books Ltd
SKU: K1036105075
Price: 14.71 BHD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.1 (5 reviews)

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