SALALA CHECK POST INCIDENT: CONTEXT AND IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This paper aims to analyze the series of significant events which contributed to the deterioration of the Pakistan-US relations before November 26 2011, and the strategic, diplomatic, and financial implications of this event for the two countries.
Methodology: This qualitative study is based on secondary sources such as journal articles, PhD thesis, newspapers, official reports, and websites. Principal Findings: On November 26 2011, an aerial attack of NATO forces on two of the Pakistani border Military Check posts leaving at least 24 soldiers dead outraged Pakistani people and government. Subsequently, already strained Pakistan-US relations touched the lowest ebb. NATO supplies to Afghanistan were immediately suspended by Pakistan, demanding a formal investigation and apology by the U.S. It is pertinent to note that the Salala incident was only the tip of the iceberg. There were other events before this that contributed to the growing mistrust between the two strategic partners.
Application of this Study: This study can be helpful for the foreign policy decision-makers of the U.S. and Pakistan to maintain these bilateral relations on a smooth footing based on mutual trust and respect for each other's sovereignty and security.
Novelty/Originality of this study: This study has analyzed the implication of significant events during the Obama period and particular focus on the Salala Check Post-incident and the strategic, diplomatic, and financial impacts of these events for both countries.