Editorial Summary
Shifting dynamics in US-Pak ties
- 03/14/2025
- Posted by: cssplatformbytha.com
- Category: Pakistan Observer

The recent shift in US-Pakistan ties marks a significant departure from the tumultuous past, characterized by mistrust and transactional dealings. President Donald Trump’s acknowledgment of Pakistan’s role in the arrest of a key Daesh commander underscores the country’s counterterrorism efforts and signals a recalibration of US foreign policy in the region. This renewed engagement is not limited to security cooperation but extends to economic collaboration in IT, energy, and mineral sectors. Furthermore, Trump’s decision to retrieve US military equipment from Afghanistan, previously used by the TTP against Pakistani forces, aligns with Islamabad’s security concerns. Unlike past administrations that favored India, this shift reflects a broader strategic realignment, prioritizing pragmatic cooperation over regional biases. However, history has shown that US-Pakistan relations are often dictated by immediate interests rather than long-term alliances.
Despite this apparent goodwill, skepticism lingers over the sustainability of this relationship, given Washington’s history of disengagement once strategic objectives are met. From Pakistan’s participation in SEATO and CENTO in the 1950s to its important role in the Afghan War, the US has repeatedly abandoned Islamabad once its interests were fulfilled. The imposition of sanctions on Pakistan’s missile program under the Biden administration further strained ties, highlighting the unpredictable nature of US policies. While Trump’s recognition of Pakistan’s sacrifices in counterterrorism is a welcome shift, the future of bilateral relations will likely remain transactional, shaped by evolving geopolitical realities rather than genuine partnership. Pakistan must navigate this engagement cautiously, leveraging it for economic and security benefits while maintaining strategic autonomy.
Overview:
The article discusses the evolving US-Pakistan relationship, emphasizing a shift from past skepticism to renewed cooperation under President Trump. Pakistan’s assistance in capturing a Daesh leader has improved its global counterterrorism standing. However, historical patterns suggest that US engagement with Pakistan is often interest-driven, raising doubts about the long-term stability of these ties. The piece also highlights Trump’s recalibrated regional approach, reducing India’s influence while fostering economic and security collaboration with Pakistan.
NOTES:
US-Pakistan relations have historically fluctuated between strategic cooperation and disengagement, reflecting the broader contours of US foreign policy. This article provides a nuanced understanding of Washington’s shifting priorities, from Cold War alliances to post-9/11 counterterrorism efforts. Pakistan’s counterterrorism role has been acknowledged internationally, but its strategic engagements with the US remain largely transactional. The article also underscores the influence of regional geopolitics, particularly the shift away from India-centric policies. For CSS aspirants, this analysis is pivotal in understanding the dynamics of international relations, the impact of foreign policy shifts on regional stability, and Pakistan’s strategic positioning in global affairs.
Relevant CSS Syllabus Topics:
- Pakistan’s Foreign Policy – Examining Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements and strategic partnerships.
- International Relations – Understanding US foreign policy shifts and their impact on regional alliances.
- Terrorism and Security Studies – Evaluating Pakistan’s counterterrorism role and US-Pakistan military cooperation.
- US Foreign Policy – Analyzing changing US approaches toward Pakistan and South Asia.
Notes for Beginners:
US-Pakistan relations have always been shaped by changing global priorities. In the past, the US supported Pakistan during the Cold War but later disengaged when its interests shifted. Recently, the US appreciated Pakistan’s role in capturing a top terrorist, signaling improved relations. However, this does not mean a permanent friendship, as the US often engages with Pakistan only when it benefits its own policies. Pakistan has suffered greatly due to terrorism, losing over 80,000 lives. While the new cooperation is promising, history shows that US-Pakistan ties remain unpredictable. Understanding these dynamics helps in analyzing global politics and foreign policies.
Facts and Figures:
- 80,000+ Pakistani civilians and security personnel lost lives in the war on terror.
- Top 10% of US aid to Pakistan has been military-related, highlighting strategic engagement.
- US-Pakistan trade stands at $8 billion annually, with growing interest in IT and energy.
- Pakistan played a key role in the US-Taliban peace deal, facilitating American withdrawal.
- Trump’s statement marks a shift from Biden’s era, where Pakistan faced missile program sanctions.
To wrap up, The article presents a critical perspective on the evolving US-Pakistan relationship, highlighting both opportunities and historical challenges. While Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts have gained recognition, its engagement with the US remains subject to changing geopolitical priorities. The shift away from an India-centric approach offers Pakistan strategic leverage, but history suggests that long-term commitments from Washington are rare. Pakistan must approach this renewed cooperation pragmatically, ensuring that it translates into tangible economic and security benefits rather than short-term political gains.
Difficult Words and Meanings:
- Transactional – Based on exchange rather than long-term commitment (Syn: commercial, temporary | Ant: permanent, enduring)
- Recalibration – Adjustment to a new strategy or direction (Syn: restructuring, reorientation | Ant: stagnation, consistency)
- Pampering – Excessively favoring or supporting (Syn: coddling, indulging | Ant: neglecting, disregarding)
- Quid pro quo – A mutual exchange of benefits (Syn: reciprocity, trade-off | Ant: unilateral, one-sided)
- Unruffled – Not disturbed or worried (Syn: calm, composed | Ant: agitated, anxious)