Several Anti-Establishment Experts Also Acknowledge the Military’s Power
Army Chief’s Influence and Lobbying Have Increased, Says Ayesha Siddiqa
Trump Faces Opposition from His Establishment, Says Wajahat Saeed Khan
PTI Must Fight Its Own Battles, Says Haider Mehdi
Pakistan’s Military Establishment Has Good Relations with the U.S., Says Moeed Pirzada
Peshawar (Ghag Report) – In recent commentary, numerous pro-PTI and anti-establishment analysts, experts, and YouTubers have termed the expectations PTI leadership and supporters have associated with Donald Trump as unrealistic. They acknowledge that Pakistan’s current military establishment is more powerful than before, not only with strong ties to China but also with improved relations with the U.S. establishment, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and several other key countries.
Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa, Analyst
Prominent analyst Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa, in a detailed article and interview, stated that following the recent constitutional amendments and the current coalition government, the power and authority of Pakistan’s military and its leadership have significantly increased. According to her, it appears that the military establishment will likely face no major obstacles or challenges for the foreseeable future. She added that neither Imran Khan nor his party is in a position to offer anything substantial to the U.S. or its president. Hence, the U.S. will likely continue to prioritize the views and desires of Pakistan’s government, especially the military, over any expectations of Trump offering serious relief to the former prime minister.
Husain Haqqani, Former Ambassador
According to former ambassador Husain Haqqani, lobbying efforts against Pakistan have been made in the U.S. and several other key countries before, but these attempts have not yielded any significant impact on policy-making, and Pakistan has maintained its stance. He believes that the type of lobbying that PTI is celebrating is a routine practice in the U.S. and the U.K., and it generally does not attract any substantial attention.
Haider Mehdi, YouTuber
YouTuber Haider Mehdi remarked that Pakistan’s military maintains close ties with the Pentagon and CENTCOM, as it has in the past. Due to Pakistan’s strategic importance, the U.S. establishment continues to rely on it, meaning PTI and its leadership should not expect significant support from Trump or anyone else. Mehdi added that Trump himself faces disfavor and concerns from the U.S. deep state and establishment, as he is entangled in his issues.
Moeed Pirzada, YouTuber
On this topic, YouTuber Moeed Pirzada noted that there may be some pressure on the new U.S. administration due to efforts by PTI and others, but the likelihood of a breakthrough seems slim. Long-standing relations exist between Pakistan’s military establishment and the U.S., and due to regional challenges and changes, the U.S. needs Pakistan’s cooperation. The same applies to several other countries that may influence U.S. policies.
Wajahat Saeed Khan, YouTuber
According to Wajahat Saeed Khan, Pakistan’s army has emerged with new strength and alignment, making it appear unlikely that the expectations associated with Trump will be met. Therefore, PTI’s leaders and supporters must take action on their own.