Thousands of demonstrators cheer and wave flags during a rally organized by Jamaat-e-Islami, Pakistan’s most powerful religious political party, in Peshawar, Pakistan, on Friday, October 19. The protesters demanded an end to the U.S.-led military campaign in Afghanistan. Photo: AP/Wide World

The U.S. has a newfound alliance with Pakistan. Two months ago, the United States was withholding money and aid from Pakistan. Now, Pakistan is a key U.S. ally. Although Pakistan is backing the U.S. in its assault on Afghanistan in exchange for increased economic aid, the relationship is shaky.

The U.S. needs Pakistan’s land and airspace to launch an effective attack against the Taliban. The U.S. also needs information about Osama bin Laden. Pakistan is the only country that recognizes the Taliban as Afghanistan’s official government. A U.S. alliance also drives a wedge between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan has nuclear weapons, which could put the entire world in danger if those weapons were to become available to terrorists.

To help win Pakistan’s support, President Bush lifted economic sanctions that were placed on the country in the late 1990s. Sanctions, or the withholding of aid, were imposed in 1998 after Pakistan tested a nuclear bomb. The test was in response to a similar test by India. The two countries have been fighting over control of the territory of Kashmir for 50 years. Kashmir is wedged between Pakistan and India.

In 1999, a military coup overturned Pakistan’s government, increasing U.S. concerns. In addition to lifting sanctions, President Bush has proposed giving millions of dollars in aid to Pakistan.

Problems for Pakistan
Newly armed with the aid and support of the U.S., Pakistan has agreed to provide the U.S. with logistical support and intelligence in its war on terrorism. However, within Pakistan, some people are outraged by the alliance. Many are staging demonstrations. Some extremists have promised to unseat the current leaders if Pakistan continues to assist the U.S.

Until the Pakistani alliance was formed in September, India was the U.S.’s closest ally in the region. Many leaders in India do not believe the U.S. can be an ally of both countries.

A 10-month cease-fire between the two came to an end in October when India fired on Pakistan. Indian leaders said they renewed the fight over Kashmir to get America’s attention. Powell visited both countries in October to offer help in negotiating peace.