U.S. pulls the plug on Pakistan aid—while Pakistan reads the red‑flag memo
In a dramatic shake‑up last week, the U.S. government sent a cold‑cutting message to its neighbor: “We’re done playing your double‑dealing game. Either step up the fight against terror or lose your lifeline.” But Pakistan says it’s not the only side holding the reins; it’s ready to school the U.S. in moral gymnastics.
Why the U.S. is seething
- “Double game” accusations – Washington claims Islamabad alternates between joining forces with the U.S. and harbouring threats that run up against American troops in Afghanistan.
- President Trump’s brutal tweet – “We’re not being rewarded for this, we’re getting lies and deceit.” The post also slammed 15 years of U.S. aid amounting to more than US$33 billion.
- Ambassador Haley’s warning at the UN – “We’re removing roughly US$255 million from aid. There’s a reason, and Pakistan has been playing a two‑sided card.”
- State Department’s hand‑shaken ultimatum – “Pakistan must earn its weapon‑training dollars” by targeting the Haqqani network.
Pakistan’s comeback story
Despite the U.S.’s affront, Pakistani leaders stayed cool. On Tuesday, a trio of civilian and military chiefs summoned the American ambassador for a face‑to‑face, not a “face‑to‑face” in Blender. The Prime Minister even yanked a 3‑hour security committee out of the schedule because – what else – Trump’s tweet needed to be dug out and dialed down.
The committee’s statement, in flip‑flop words, was: “We’re deeply disappointed. Your recent comments are a reality check. They’re unfair, wildly misaligned with facts, and a slap in the face for the sacrifices we’ve made.” No mention of “Trump,” which is half the drama.
What it all boils down to
It’s a war of words wrapped in bureaucratic headlines. The U.S. wants Pakistan to yank up its security efforts, especially against the Haqqani and Taliban. Pakistan claims it’s beating the odds, having faced heavy Islamist casualties since 2001, while demanding moral respect. The real battle? Who can point the finger the hardest and yet keep the peace intact?
