More likely, the Algerian hostage crisis signals that Islamist extremists and dangerous gangs are gaining ascendancy in that part of the world, a region that is remote but crucial.

CNN: Algeria crisis is a wakeup call for America

On Monday, a senior MQM leader blamed the violence on gangs of extortionists and land grabbers who had taken the city hostage.

BBC: Karachi political attacks kill 50, say rights groups