- What was it: Israel sold Soviet weapons—much of it seized from the PLO—to Pakistan in the '80s. Rerouted to mujahideen fighting the Russians in Afghanistan.
- Actors: Gen Zia-ul-Haq, Congressman Charlie Wilson, socialite Joanne Herring and CIA man Gust Avrakotos.
- Nature of deal: Pakistan and Israel were foes in public. Cooperated closely in war against Russians.
- Zia's gains: $4.2 billion in aid, and more slush funds from CIA. Cosies his way back into White House.
- Future: Sets precedent for Gen Pervez Musharraf, who's mulling having formal links with Israel.