In the complex web of international relations, the United States has historically balanced various alliances to maintain stability, secure interests, and promote democratic values. Pakistan, a key player in South Asia, remains an essential U.S. partner due to its strategic location, nuclear capabilities, and role in counterterrorism. However, engaging with Pakistan’s political leadership has often been challenging. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, once a popular figure, is a contentious personality both domestically and internationally. Some argue that Khan is a charismatic leader, while others see him as a populist with questionable reliability. Given these dynamics, it’s crucial for U.S. policymakers, including former President Donald Trump, to assess the most beneficial approach toward Pakistan. In this case, engaging with the elected government of Pakistan rather than focusing on individual leaders like Imran Khan may be the wisest choice.
Imran Khan: A Controversial Figure
Imran Khan, a former cricketer turned politician, founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and gained prominence by promising anti-corruption reforms, economic revitalization, and improved relations with the West. However, during his tenure as Prime Minister, many critics argue that Khan’s promises fell short, with Pakistan facing significant economic instability, political unrest, and internal division. His style of leadership, often viewed as authoritarian and unpredictable, did not win him favor among all Pakistanis, especially as inflation soared and governance issues worsened. For some in Pakistan and abroad, Khan’s appeal lies more in rhetoric than tangible achievements, and his leadership style has often been labeled as polarizing, even divisive.
In recent years, Imran Khan’s relationship with the United States has been marked by tension. Khan often criticized the U.S. role in Pakistan’s affairs, which alienated some American policymakers. He also frequently referenced supposed “foreign interference” in Pakistani politics, a narrative some critics argue was a tactic to shift blame for domestic challenges. This stance has raised questions about Khan’s reliability as a partner for the United States, especially given his tendency to pivot positions when politically convenient.
Why Supporting the Pakistani Government Matters
The United States’ strategic interests in Pakistan are rooted in its stability as a nation and its role in South Asian geopolitics. The Pakistani government, which represents a wide spectrum of political views and is accountable to the electorate, provides a more stable and reliable partner than any individual leader. In contrast to the shifting stances of political figures, the government—regardless of which party is in power—must manage Pakistan’s complex socio-economic challenges and maintain international relationships to sustain its legitimacy and ensure internal security.
The current government in Pakistan, led by Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, seeks constructive engagement with international partners, including the United States. This administration is better positioned to address diplomatic, economic, and security issues through institutional channels that offer continuity and reliability. By supporting the government rather than a specific politician, the U.S. can foster a partnership that transcends individual agendas and promotes long-term cooperation on issues such as counterterrorism, economic stability, and regional security.
Risks of Aligning with Individual Leaders
Aligning too closely with one leader can jeopardize diplomatic relations when that individual falls out of favor domestically. Imran Khan’s recent political standing in Pakistan is uncertain; he has faced legal battles and significant political opposition, which have eroded his influence. Tying U.S. interests to a potentially controversial or unstable figure could backfire, damaging America’s credibility and diminishing its ability to influence Pakistan’s policies on matters critical to U.S. interests.
Further, Imran Khan’s anti-U.S. rhetoric and populist approach make him a risky figure to support. His political persona often revolves around creating division rather than fostering unity, and he has a history of criticizing Western influence in Pakistan. This approach may resonate with his supporters but does little to facilitate constructive diplomatic relations. For Trump or any U.S. leader to endorse Khan risks sending a message that the U.S. is willing to overlook domestic instability for the sake of political alignment, which could alienate other important Pakistani stakeholders and damage the U.S.’s standing in the region.
What U.S.-Pakistan Relations Need Going Forward
The United States has much to gain from building a relationship with the Pakistani government that can transcend political personalities. By working with Pakistani institutions, the U.S. can promote stability and ensure a consistent approach to bilateral cooperation. Moreover, this approach respects Pakistan’s sovereignty and shows that the U.S. supports Pakistan’s democratic institutions, not just popular figures. In this context, Donald Trump or any future U.S. leader would be wise to prioritize institutional ties over individual relationships.
While Imran Khan remains a significant figure in Pakistani politics, his reputation as a trustworthy partner is questionable. For the United States, an alliance with the official government rather than a political figure not only reflects a stable foreign policy approach but also strengthens bilateral ties based on mutual respect and pragmatic cooperation. Prioritizing relationships with the sitting government, rather than individual personalities, is a more sustainable and effective way for the U.S. to engage with Pakistan and ensure the partnership endures over time.
