By Khalid Khan
U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statement, in which he expressed gratitude to the Pakistani government, has become the focal point of international attention. Addressing Congress, he announced with satisfaction that the mastermind behind the 2021 Kabul Airport attack on U.S. troops had been apprehended. He acknowledged Pakistan’s crucial assistance in this operation and extended his thanks for their support.
This statement was unprecedented, as Trump had previously been highly critical of Pakistan. During his first term, he had suspended military aid and frequently accused Pakistan of harboring terrorists because he was under the total control of the US Deep State. However, his tone now reflected a noticeable shift he has had on the war to bust US Deep State that according to him is (was) involved directly or indirectly in global terrorism. Understanding this change in the tone of President Trump towards Pakistan requires analyzing past statements and the current global geopolitical landscape.
The Washington Post noted that this marks a turning point in U.S. foreign policy. Following the withdrawal from Afghanistan, the U.S. is (was) seeking a regional partner to safeguard its interests. Pakistan’s intelligence agencies have played a pivotal role in counterterrorism operations in recent years, and this arrest is a testament to their effectiveness.
Pakistan’s intelligence services have consistently played a key role in maintaining regional stability. Foreign Policy reported that Pakistan’s intelligence has demonstrated exceptional expertise and determination in the global war on terror—something unmatched by any other agency in the region. From dismantling ISIS networks to crippling Al-Qaeda, Pakistan has not only secured its territory but has also safeguarded global security interests. Even former U.S. intelligence officials have acknowledged Pakistan’s capabilities. The New Yorker highlighted that numerous former CIA officers concede Pakistan’s unique ability to identify and dismantle networks that Western agencies often overlook.
Reacting to Trump’s statement, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to counterterrorism, emphasizing the country’s relentless efforts to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries and prevent their operations against any state. He reminded the world that Pakistan has paid a steep price for this mission, sacrificing over 80,000 lives, including both military personnel and civilians.
Pakistan has a long history of counterterrorism efforts that extend far beyond its borders. Since 9/11, the country has remained a frontline state in the global war on terror, often facing criticism yet playing a crucial role in dismantling extremist networks. In recent years, Pakistan’s military has launched a series of successful operations, including Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, which significantly weakened militant networks within its territory. However, its efforts have rarely been acknowledged on an international level.
The New York Times commented that such statements reflect America’s evolving geopolitical compulsions. While the U.S. maintains close ties with India, New Delhi’s growing proximity to China, Russia, and Iran has prompted Washington to reconsider its regional strategy. The newspaper believes seeking allies to counter China’s rising influence, the U.S. appears to be repositioning Pakistan within its strategic calculus.
The Guardian suggested that Trump’s acknowledgment of Pakistan may also be an extension of his unpredictable diplomatic style. Known for surprising both American citizens and global analysts with unorthodox decisions, he may once again be deploying a calculated move. With Democrats adopting a relatively softer stance on China, Trump could be setting the stage for an alternative strategic approach by bringing Pakistan into the fold.
Pakistan’s military leadership has played a central role in this diplomatic shift. In recent years, visits by Pakistan’s Army Chief to Washington and high-level engagements with U.S. officials have underscored growing security and defense cooperation between the two countries. Bloomberg reported that Pakistan’s top military leadership held extensive discussions with U.S. military and political leaders, focusing on counterterrorism and strategic defense collaboration. According to The Financial Times, U.S. officials recognize the significance of Pakistan’s regional security strategy, which has led to improved bilateral military ties.
For Pakistani authorities, this represents both an opportunity and a challenge. Al Jazeera cautioned that while strengthening ties with the U.S. can yield economic and defense benefits, Pakistan must balance these relations with its existing partnerships with China, Russia, and Iran. Analysts stress that Pakistan must navigate this situation strategically to maximize its diplomatic leverage. According to US analysts Trump’s commendation of Pakistan signals improved relations, but the key question remains: Is this a fleeting diplomatic maneuver or the beginning of a new chapter?
Furthermore, this shift in U.S.-Pakistan relations comes at a time when global power dynamics are evolving. The U.S. is recalibrating its approach towards South Asia, recognizing the need for a reliable partner that understands the complexities of regional security. While India remains an important strategic ally for Washington, its growing ties with Moscow and Beijing have led American policymakers to reconsider Pakistan’s role in counterbalancing emerging threats. Additionally, Pakistan’s geographical position makes it a critical player in regional security, as instability in Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Middle East continues to pose challenges to U.S. interests.
Pakistan’s intelligence agencies have also gained recognition for their counterintelligence capabilities. Over the years, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been instrumental in preventing numerous attacks within and beyond Pakistan’s borders. In contrast to the popular Western perception that Pakistan has played a double game, there is now a growing acknowledgment of the risks the country has undertaken in combating extremist elements. Many international analysts now concede that, without Pakistan’s role, the situation in Afghanistan could have been significantly worse.
Beyond security cooperation, economic and trade considerations also factor into this diplomatic shift. Pakistan’s engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank has been closely linked to its relations with Washington. A stronger diplomatic rapport with the U.S. could lead to economic relief, trade agreements, and increased foreign investment in Pakistan. This aligns with Pakistan’s broader economic objectives, particularly as the country faces financial challenges due to rising inflation and fiscal deficits. Strengthening ties with the U.S. could open avenues for economic cooperation that would benefit Pakistan’s long-term stability.
At first glance, Trump’s expression of gratitude to Pakistan may seem like a simple statement, but behind it lies a complex geopolitical chessboard. For Pakistan, this is both an opportunity and a test. If navigated wisely, it could secure American support while reinforcing its national interests. However, caution is imperative—international politics is never absolute; it constantly shifts according to evolving interests. Pakistan’s policymakers must remain vigilant, ensuring that this diplomatic recognition translates into tangible benefits for the country rather than being a momentary shift in rhetoric.
Pakistan now stands at a pivotal juncture, where its diplomatic, military, and intelligence strengths are being acknowledged on the global stage. While Trump’s statement marks a significant moment, the real challenge lies ahead—how Pakistan capitalizes on this newfound recognition and whether it can leverage this development to secure lasting strategic advantages. The road ahead will require careful negotiation, strategic foresight, and a balanced approach to maintaining existing alliances while forging new partnerships. Only time will tell whether this marks the beginning of a strengthened U.S.-Pakistan alliance or a temporary shift in diplomatic priorities.
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The views and opinions expressed in this article/Opinion/Comment are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the London Post. Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of the London Post.