The Road to Afghanistan - George Washington University

Extreme nervous tension had exhausted the participants on both sides of the oakdoor. It seemed as if they were tiring of the spectacle in expectation of the finale.The terrorists were the first to move the situation towards a resolution. One ofthem, standing behind the wall beside the door, shouted in a high, uneven voice that thetime limit given to fulfill their demands was coming to an end. According to him, if theirdemands were not satisfied immediately, they were prepared to kill the hostage. Inresponse, Tarun, pronouncing his words very carefully and making long pauses, informedthe terrorists that the difficulties were gradually but successfully being overcome. “Verysoon you will receive proof of the goodwill of the authorities. Badruddin Bahes is alreadyon his way to the hotel.”Without any further arguments, the terrorists agreed to wait for ten more minutes.Some sounds and loud voices could be heard from behind the door. It seemed that theterrorists were arguing about something amongst themselves, and were explainingsomething to Dubs.Then Tarun addressed Amstutz and Charlie.“The room should be stormed through the door. I think we will start the attack inthe next few minutes. There will not be other opportunities to free Mr. Dubs.”The American embassy’s security officer gesticulated with his hand, as if trying toobject. His decisive motions and his intonations did not match. “Try to buy us more time,”he recommended in an uncertain voice.What will more time give us?” asked Tarun. “The danger of the ambassador beingkilled is becoming more of a reality with every passing minute. It is time to act.”305