Despite U.S. President Trump’s mention of Pakistan in his recent speech, the likelihood of increased U.S.-Pakistan security cooperation is low due to geopolitical tensions and differing threat perceptions. Recent terrorist activities in Pakistan underline the urgency for cooperation, but U.S. focus may lean towards strengthening ties with India instead.
Despite mentions by U.S. President Donald Trump in his Congressional address, expectations of increased U.S.-Pakistan security cooperation remain low. Recent comments reflect a precarious situation with regard to U.S.-Pakistan relations and broader geopolitical implications, particularly with emerging ties to India while dealing with Pakistan’s security challenges.
In his address on March 4, Trump acknowledged Pakistan’s role in capturing Mohammad Sharifullah, an Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) member, underlining a moment of collaboration. However, top U.S. officials maintain that this should not be interpreted as a sign of a renewed partnership. Instead, ongoing factors such as historical tensions, varying threat perceptions, and the geopolitical landscape complicate this outlook.
The halt of most U.S. security assistance to Pakistan over the years, alongside the evolving U.S. interests post-Afghanistan withdrawal, has hindered any substantial bilateral cooperation. While counterterrorism efforts against IS-K may align both nations, divergent priorities between the U.S. and Pakistan, particularly regarding the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as a primary menace, must be considered.
Recent escalations in terrorist activity in Pakistan, highlighted by a significant train hijacking by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), have reignited security concerns. Although both nations acknowledge IS-K as a threat, Pakistan’s focus has shifted largely towards threats from the TTP and BLA, emphasizing the need for a reassessment of U.S.-Pakistan security dynamics.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance’s upcoming visit to India reflects a pivot toward deeper U.S.-India relations, a move that may overshadow security collaborations with Pakistan. The potential implications of this visit on future trade and diplomatic negotiations remain under scrutiny as tariffs loom for Indian products.
Amid the ongoing political landscape, recent discussions between Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the IMF signify a focus on economic recovery and future prospects amidst political and economic challenges. While he lauds past recovery efforts, calls for a more pro-poor strategy could indicate shifts in policy amidst ongoing aid negotiations.
In summary, while U.S. President Trump’s recent speech acknowledged Pakistan’s collaboration in counterterrorism, the prospect of intensifying U.S.-Pakistan security relations appears unlikely due to numerous geopolitical challenges. The focus on India and diverging national security priorities will likely limit future cooperation. The recent surge in terrorist activity highlights ongoing security concerns, indicating that any partnership will require clearer alignment regarding threat perceptions and strategic interests, especially concerning groups like IS-K and TTP.
Original Source: foreignpolicy.com
