US Strategy of Favoring India Over Pakistan Hasn’t Achieved Objectives

The United States’ longstanding approach of prioritizing India over Pakistan has not successfully met Washington’s aims in the region. Over two decades, this strategy has failed to adequately protect US interests or fully integrate New Delhi with Washington’s goals.

An analysis featured in the American magazine, Foreign Affairs, suggests that the “United States bet on India, but that bet has not paid off.” The piece cautions that India is still both unwilling and unable to conform to US preferences in the region.

The analysis highlights that New Delhi has consistently disappointed American expectations, evidenced by its neutral stance regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Advocating for a revised strategy, the article suggests Washington should “rebalance its commitments in the region” and cultivate stronger relations with Pakistan, while continuing its partnership with India.

The report indicated that former US President Donald Trump had commended Pakistan for its counterterrorism work and its efforts to de-escalate tensions with India amidst cross-border conflicts.

The magazine noted ongoing advancements in bilateral cooperation, such as a deal to sustain low tariffs in exchange for providing US companies with exploration rights to untapped oil reserves in Pakistan. Additionally, collaborations in cryptocurrency and critical mineral mining are being explored.

The report concluded that US investment in Pakistan’s resources sector — including the Reko Diq copper and gold mine — might contribute to regional stability. It warned that a one-sided strategy favoring India could “deepen fault lines in South Asia” and heighten the likelihood of conflict.