American officials say they are uncertain why General Musharraf is now moving against the scientists. They suggested in recent interviews that the evidence has become so overwhelming that he has begun to fear the reimposition of sanctions by Congress. But they also suggest that he may be trying to reassert his power, demonstrating that he will not be intimidated by critics who say he has warmed up too much to the United States, both in the hunt for Al Qaeda terrorists and in Washington's demands to clamp down on proliferation.

More revealing details about the motivations behind the deal with Libya. We get irrefutable proof of Pakistani complicity, which then forces Musharraf to take action against those responsible. This incites the hardliners, and Musharraf is forced to engage them. Which leads us to bin Laden.

There are links, and then there are links.