‘U.S. Used Pakistan and Then Discarded It Like Toilet Paper’: Khawaja Asif Makes Stark Remark

Khawaja Asif’s Explosive Remark Rekindles Debate on U.S.–Pakistan Relations

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has triggered a major diplomatic and political discussion after delivering a blunt assessment of Pakistan’s past alliance with the United States. His statement — claiming that the U.S. “used Pakistan and then discarded it” — quickly gained global attention and sparked widespread debate.

The remark came during a public interaction where Asif reflected on Pakistan’s historical foreign policy choices and strategic alignments.

---

Critique of Past Strategic Dependence

Asif openly questioned Pakistan’s long-standing reliance on Washington, arguing that the partnership largely benefited U.S. geopolitical objectives.

He pointed out that Pakistan extended military, intelligence, and logistical support during multiple global conflicts. However, he suggested that the returns for Pakistan were limited and often temporary.

According to him, these alliances placed Pakistan in complex security situations that had lasting domestic consequences.

---

Afghanistan Conflict at the Centre

A key part of Asif’s remarks focused on Pakistan’s involvement in the U.S.-led war in Afghanistan.

He stated that Pakistan’s frontline role exposed the country to terrorism, economic losses, and prolonged instability. The Defence Minister described the era as a period when Pakistan bore the burden of decisions driven by external strategic priorities.

He added that the aftereffects of that involvement continue to influence Pakistan’s internal security landscape.

---

Mixed Political Response

The statement has drawn divided reactions within Pakistan.

Some political leaders and analysts supported Asif’s candid acknowledgment, calling it a realistic reflection on policy missteps. They argued that openly evaluating past alliances is necessary for shaping a stronger future strategy.

Others criticised the language used, warning that harsh rhetoric could complicate ongoing diplomatic engagement with the United States.

---

Diplomatic and Global Context

Observers believe the remark reflects Pakistan’s evolving geopolitical positioning. In recent years, Islamabad has broadened its foreign policy outreach, strengthening partnerships with China, Middle Eastern nations, and regional allies.

This shift is viewed as an attempt to reduce overdependence on any single global power while pursuing diversified economic and security cooperation.

---

Debate Over Future Foreign Policy Direction

Asif’s statement has reignited national discussion about Pakistan’s long-term diplomatic roadmap.

Policy experts say the focus now is on building balanced global partnerships rooted in economic growth, regional stability, and sovereign decision-making.

While historical alliances remain significant, the debate suggests Pakistan is reassessing how it defines strategic cooperation in the modern geopolitical order.