Pakistan: Pressure Grows in Congress on Military Aid Package

Following increased questioning over the efforts and ability of Pakistan’s security forces to fight terrorism, members of Congress are increasing their calls to scrutinize military aid to Pakistan. Rep. Ted Poe (R-TX) has introduced legislation that would require all aid be frozen until the Pakistani government proves it was not complicit in hiding bin Laden. This bill reportedly will likely not reach the floor and would have little support. However, members of both houses from both parties have released increasingly critical statements. Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA) argued:  “Under the current legislative scheme, I don’t think our military assistance is serving the interests we are intending it to serve” and “What I’m asking the administration to do is focus on getting Pakistan to change its approach and go after extremist groups. If they’re not successful, we should reconsider giving this money.” Berman’s statements were reiterated by key Senators; Senate Armed Services chairman Carl Levin (D-MI) and Senate Appropriations State and Foreign Ops subcommittee chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT). Others have offered a more go-slow approach including Sen. John Kerry (D-MA), Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Reps. Kay Granger (R-TX) and Nita Lowey (D-NY).