The United States action on Pakistan could extend beyond a new freeze in aid, according to a report by Reuters.
Recently, U.S. announced suspension of security assistance to Pakistan that could be up to $2 billion over militant safe havens.
A senior U.S. official has cautioned that the freeze was also not the only tool that America had to pressure the country, suggesting it might resort to other measures, if needed.
“We are considering many different things, not just the (financial) assistance issue,” the unnamed official told Reuters.
“We are also looking at Pakistan’s potential response … and we are looking at ways to deal with that and to mitigate the risks to the relationship.”
Pakistan has long been accused of sheltering militants who launch attacks in Afghanistan. This week, U.S. President Donald Trump accused Pakistan of giving “lies and deceit” in return for U.S. aid.
“We believe we owe it to the Americans in harms’ way in Afghanistan. We simply can’t ignore the sanctuaries if we are going to make progress in Afghanistan.” the official said.
U.S. defense chief plays down concerns over Pakistan’s possible retaliation
Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis has played down concerns over Pakistan’s possible move to cut off U.S. military’s supply routes to Afghanistan.
“I’m not concerned, no,” Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon, adding there was no indication from Pakistan that it might cut off those routes.
“We‘re still working with Pakistan and we would restore the aid if we see decisive movements against the terrorists – who are as much a threat against Pakistan as they are to us.”
