UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, the United States is enhancing its military ties with Pakistan while **Field Marshal Asim Munir** consolidates power amidst growing concerns over terrorism and regional stability. The Pakistani parliament has just passed a sweeping constitutional amendment granting Munir **lifetime immunity from arrest** and expanding his military authority, a move that raises alarms about the country’s return to strict military control.
This **urgent development** comes as Pakistan’s military has intensified its influence over political and judicial institutions, further complicating the already delicate relationship between the U.S. and its traditional ally, India. The amendment was signed into law last Thursday, signaling a significant shift in Pakistan’s governance landscape.
In stark contrast, **Washington’s engagement with Islamabad** has ramped up. Munir has visited the **White House** twice in recent months, reflecting a renewed focus on military and economic collaboration. Officials in Washington seem to overlook the implications of Munir’s growing power, believing he can serve as a reliable ally in the fight against terrorism.
However, this assessment may be misguided. Recent intelligence reports indicate that following **India’s Operation Sindoor** in May, aimed at dismantling terror bases in **Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir**, Islamabad has allegedly aided terrorist groups like **Jaish-e-Mohammed** in rebuilding their operations. Reports suggest that these groups have shifted their focus to **Khyber Pakhtunkhwa**, where they have reportedly held public rallies under police protection.
On **September 14**, Jaish-e-Mohammed conducted a recruitment rally, indicating a troubling resurgence of militant activities in the region. Indian authorities have linked the group’s activities to a recent **car-bomb explosion** near Delhi’s Red Fort, which killed **13 people** and injured many more.
Adding to the chaos, **Pakistan’s strategic depth doctrine**—a cornerstone of its foreign policy—has significantly weakened. The country’s reliance on the **Taliban** as a compliant ally is diminishing. In a notable incident on **October 9**, Pakistani aircraft targeted positions of the **Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan** in Kabul, coinciding with the Afghan foreign minister’s first official visit to India. This reflects Islamabad’s fears over growing **India-Taliban relations**.
The consolidation of power by Field Marshal Munir amid these developments is raising eyebrows. Observers argue that these actions stem from a position of insecurity within Pakistan’s ruling elite, as the nation grapples with potential fragmentation along ethnic lines. The **Pashtun population** is increasingly resisting **Punjabi dominance**, and if separatist movements gain momentum, Pakistan could face significant internal challenges.
As the U.S. recalibrates its strategy in South Asia, the implications of these developments cannot be ignored. While Pakistan seeks to bolster its military presence, the reality is that its influence is dwindling. In contrast, **India** is emerging as a formidable force in the region, poised to become a major technological power by **2035**.
The U.S. must reconsider its approach, as prioritizing Pakistan over India may prove strategically short-sighted. With Pakistan’s ability to shape regional outcomes diminishing, the focus should shift towards fostering a partnership with New Delhi, whose influence continues to grow.
As this situation unfolds, the Pakistani military’s tightening grip on power raises critical questions about the future of governance and security in the region. The ongoing developments are not just political maneuvers; they have real implications for the stability and safety of South Asia.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, which is crucial for understanding the shifting dynamics in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
