Islamabad: Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir is in the US on a so-called strategic visit after military tensions with India escalated in May. Earlier, reports had said that Munir was invited to the US military parade in Washington DC on Saturday. However, the White House later denied these reports and said that no foreign military leader was invited to the ceremony. However, Pakistan had earlier promoted it heavily as its diplomatic victory and influence in America.
Munir trying to woo America
Newly appointed Field Marshal Asim Munir is trying to improve relations with America. His effort is to bring America closer to Pakistan so that earlier concessions can be regained. Recent statements by American military and political officials have also boosted Pakistan. Just a few days ago, the head of the American Central Command, Michael Kurilla, described relations with Pakistan as important in a testimony before the meeting of the US House Armed Services Committee.
Munir reached America at the wrong time
Munir has reached America at a time when Iran and Israel are engaged in a conflict. On Friday, Israel attacked Iranian nuclear facilities. After this, Pakistan announced to support Iran and strongly criticized Israel. Pakistani leaders are calling for Muslim countries to unite and condemn Israel's action against Iran. Meanwhile, a top Iranian general was quoted as saying that Pakistan has vowed to drop a nuclear bomb on Israel if Jerusalem adopts a similar path against Tehran.
How did the problem arise for Munir
This is the biggest problem for Munir. If Pakistan openly helps Iran against Israel and provides military support, it may anger the US. Although the US has denied approving Israeli attacks on Iran, it remains Tel Aviv's closest ally in this conflict. On Sunday, President Donald Trump said that the US stands with Israel in the conflict. He had earlier threatened Tehran that it will have to face serious consequences if America is attacked in any way.
How Pakistan is surrounded in America
US-based South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman told Dawn that the crisis in the Middle East could limit US engagement with the Pakistani delegation. He said, "Pakistan wants to gain US support, but it has condemned the Israeli attacks and is working to strengthen relations with Tehran. General Munir's presence in the capital of Israel's closest ally and Iran's main adversary at such a tense time could lead to some uncomfortable conversations." Kugelman said Pakistan's broader efforts to reset its security ties with the US will remain "difficult".
Protests in US against Asim Munir
Another issue that is likely to dominate Munir's visit is the massive response from Imran Khan's supporters in the US, who have been launching an all-out attack on the Pakistani army chief in the days ahead of his visit. PTI members have deployed digital vans in Washington carrying advertisements targeting Munir, calling him the "butcher of Islamabad" and a "fraudulent marshal".
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