Archive · 1 Jul 2025
US Covert Operations in Pakistan: A Decades-Long Partnership
The US has been secretly doing things in Pakistan for a long time, like using their military bases.
The Pakistani military sometimes helps, even though some Pakistani officials aren't allowed to know what's going on.
This has been happening for decades, even before the Cold War, and it's still happening now.
Pakistan has often helped the US, but some are critical of the relationship.
US has allegedly conducted covert operations in Pakistan for decades, with support from the Pakistani military.
Pakistan's military bases, like Nur Khan, have reportedly been used by the US, with Pakistani officials sometimes denied access.
Historical evidence suggests the US and Pakistan have collaborated on covert operations, particularly during the Cold War.
Pakistani officials, including a former Defense Minister, have admitted to supporting US operations for years.
Recent events, such as a lunch between the US President and Pakistan's army chief, suggest ongoing strategic discussions.
- Who
- The United States, the Pakistani military, and various intelligence agencies.
- What
- Alleged covert operations conducted by the United States in Pakistan, utilizing Pakistani military bases and resources.
- When
- Ongoing for decades, with specific examples cited from the Cold War and post-9/11 periods, with the present.
- Where
- Primarily in Pakistan, including air bases like Nur Khan and areas bordering Iran and Afghanistan.
- Why
- Strategic interests including countering rival countries, and regional influence.
US Strategic Objectives
Pakistani Sovereignty Concerns
Strategic Value of Alliance
US Strategic Objectives
Cooperation with Pakistan supports US interests against various rival countries.
Pakistani Sovereignty Concerns
Such collaboration is damaging to the US's standing in the world and could destabilize the region.
Geopolitical implications
US Strategic Objectives
Pakistan's geography offers strategic value, including a listening post and launch pad
Pakistani Sovereignty Concerns
Pakistan's political and moral bankruptcy makes it prone to such alliances, potentially destabilizing its place in the world
- Base in Focus
- Nur Khan air base
- Military Control
- Pakistani army has always been in control of such covert exercises, with or without the nod of political administrators - except when an army chief, like Musharraf, assumed power.
- Historical Cooperation
- CIA and ISI collaboration during the Afghan war.
- Pakistani Defence Minister Statement
- Khawaja Asif said Pakistan helped U.S. dirty work for about three decades.
- Recent Meeting
- US President and Pakistan's army chief lunch at the White House.
