Trump’s Return: Renewed Hope or Pragmatic Indifference?

Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former prime minister and leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, remains a polarizing figure both domestically and internationally. His imprisonment has sparked debates on democracy, human rights, and international diplomacy, particularly in light of changing U.S. leadership.

With Donald Trump returning as the President of the United States, there is renewed curiosity about how this could influence Khan’s political future and Pakistan’s broader political landscape.

Imran Khan’s Complex Relationship with the U.S.

Historically, Imran Khan’s relationship with the U.S. has oscillated between cooperation and criticism. During Trump’s first term, Khan and Trump enjoyed a functional rapport. In 2019, Khan’s visit to Washington was marked by warm public exchanges, with Trump referring to him as a “very good friend.”

This period saw Pakistan playing a key role in facilitating the U.S.-Taliban peace process, which was central to Trump’s agenda to end the war in Afghanistan​​​​.

However, Khan’s tenure was not without tensions. In 2022, he accused the U.S. of orchestrating his removal from office, a claim dismissed by Washington. Despite this, his political imprisonment and the crackdown on PTI have made him a symbol of resistance for his supporters, drawing attention from human rights advocates globally​​​​.

Joe Biden’s Reserved Approach

In contrast to Trump, Joe Biden’s presidency marked a cooling of U.S.-Pakistan relations. There was little direct engagement between Biden and Khan, even when Khan was the sitting prime minister. This diplomatic distance reflected broader U.S. frustrations with Pakistan’s military and political dynamics. During Khan’s imprisonment, over 60 Democratic lawmakers urged Biden to address human rights violations in Pakistan, including calls for Khan’s release. However, Biden’s administration largely maintained a hands-off approach, prioritizing other global issues​​.

Trump’s Return: Renewed Hope or Pragmatic Indifference?

Trump’s re-election in 2024 has reignited speculation about his potential role in Pakistan’s political turmoil. Some analysts and PTI leaders express cautious optimism, highlighting the personal rapport between Trump and Khan. Trump’s pragmatic focus on South Asia, especially during the Afghan peace process, showcased his willingness to engage with Pakistan when it served U.S. interests​​​​.

However, Trump’s approach will likely remain grounded in strategic priorities. While his administration might pressure Pakistan on human rights issues, any overt intervention would depend on broader U.S. interests in countering China’s influence in South Asia and maintaining regional stability. As geopolitical expert Dr. Farhat Asif noted, Trump’s actions would likely prioritize U.S. objectives over purely humanitarian concerns​​.

Domestic Challenges and International Advocacy

While international advocacy, including from the U.N. and U.S. lawmakers, has amplified calls for Khan’s release. Pakistan’s powerful military establishment and the government remain determined to neutralize his political influence. Domestically, Khan continues to face charges ranging from corruption to incitement, complicating any immediate resolution​​​​.

Conclusion

Imran Khan’s future, as well as the trajectory of U.S.-Pakistan relations, remains uncertain. Trump’s presidency may bring renewed dialogue, but significant changes would require balancing U.S. strategic goals with the complex realities of Pakistan’s internal politics. Whether Khan’s imprisonment becomes a pivotal issue in U.S. foreign policy or remains sidelined as a domestic matter in Pakistan will shape the political discourse in both nations.