The US’ decision to cut military aid to Pakistan was anticipated because of the growing trust deficit between two countries after the OBL operation in Abbotabad. We are a wounded nation and bleeding on account of fighting the war on terror for the US and this stoppage of military aid when the operation in NW is going on is tantamount to being stabbed in the back.
But this was not unexpected from the US, keeping in view their past history of troubled friendship with allies. The US has a very clear concept of national policy and its objectives, and the distinguished feature of their policy is that the US is a friend of anybody as long as dictation is taken. The US knew Pakistan badly needs the military and economic aid at this juncture when the country’s economic conditions are at its worst. Deployment of 150000 troops and carrying out operation in the most difficult terrain of the world is not a joke; it requires millions of dollars.
The US has forgotten the grand sacrifices given by men of the Pakistan army in war against terror and being front line partner. It was on account of their sacrifices that saw peace in Swat and adjoining areas. Red signals were pouring in from US about stoppage of military aid to Pakistan. The Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, was on record telling Pakistan that the US will not maintain the same level of military aid unless it sees some changes in the relationship (read taking US dictation).
We have landed in a very difficult situation, but at the same time it is a blessing in disguise as it would help us to stand on our own two feet. The time has come to change our strategy. If the US can negotiate with Taliban, what is stopping us from carrying out the same exercise? We cannot continue our operations without proper resources for a long period; it would be more appropriate for us to negotiate with the militants involving tribal chiefs. We must also remember that the US shall continue sending drones on suspected hideouts of Al-Qaeda and extremists, and we should be mentally prepared for such operation deep in Pakistan.
Let us approach our all time friend China to come to our rescue as it has always stood with us during testing times. If at some stage the US decides to resume military aid to Pakistan, it should be declined. Never in the history of a civilised community in the world have the norms of sovereignty so violently shaken with such audacious and the impudent bravado and nonchalance as done by USA.
LT COL (Retd) MUKHTAR AHMED BUTT
Karachi
