WITH Donald Trump’s recent victory in presidential elections in the United States, a narrative is circulating on various social media platforms, suggesting that the man will intervene to help the incarcerated former Pakistani premier.

The assumption is based on the cordial relations that were observed between the two leaders during their respective tenures. However, there are reasons to be sceptical in this regard.

It is important to consider the enormity of responsibilities that lie ahead of Trump as he gets ready to re-enter the White House. At home, he will be facing a polarised nation and a struggling economy. Globally, he will have to confront complex challenges, like the United States’ relations with China and Russia, and the rather urgent matter of the ongoing Israel-led genocide in the Middle East.

Besides, in any case, the foreign policy of the United States has always been based on the country’s strategic interests rather than personal relations, likes and dislikes.

While Trump may have appreciated the former prime minister’s willingness to build a better relationship with the US, Pakistan’s domestic matters did not align closely with core American interests under his agenda. That equation is not likely to change anytime soon,

Social media speculations may keep many people fascinated, but any focus on Pakistan will depend solely on how the US perceives the issue of regional stability in South Asia, and, more importantly, its own geopolitical interests in the region.

Sajjad Ali Mugheri
Larkana

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2024