The Washington Times has revealed in its latest article that an unexpected turn took place in US foreign policy during the year 2025, where the “India First” strategy under President Donald Trump seemed to be gradually coming to an end, and Pakistan emerged as an important strategic partner.
According to the American journal, relations between Pakistan and the US were not pleasant until early January. Islamabad was considered close to the Taliban, politically uncertain, and diplomatically limited, although the economy improved after the floods, and GDP increased, but Pakistan was still dependent on foreign financial assistance. In Washington, Pakistan’s security importance was considered limited, and there were reservations about its inconsistent behaviour in counter-terrorism commitments.
The Washington Times wrote that by the end of 2025, the situation had changed completely. Pakistan has emerged from an isolated country to an active partner, and its global reputation has grown significantly in a matter of months.
Initially, Trump administration officials viewed Pakistan as a close ally of China, and the expectation was that the United States would increase its reliance on India, but India’s domestic politics, crackdowns on civil liberties, and tough diplomatic posture raised questions in Washington.
The first clear sign of thawing the frosty relationship came in the form of secret counterterrorism cooperation, which sent a message that Pakistan was ready for practical cooperation. In March, President Trump openly praised Pakistan’s efforts in a national address, which surprised policy circles in Washington.
Moreover, Pakistan’s military performance after a brief but intense clash between Pakistan and India in May surprised American analysts. During this time, the discipline and strategic capabilities of the Pakistani military made Pakistan’s role in Washington once again taken seriously.
The Washington Post further reported that Pakistan’s military modernization, changes in command structure, and the establishment of a Chief of Defense Forces, headed by Field Marshal Asim Munir, have also strengthened Pakistan’s image in the United States. Field Marshal Asim Munir’s White House visit and visit to Central Command headquarters were described as further strengthening of this partnership.
Pakistan is seen as a key element in President Trump’s South Asia and Far East strategy as we head into 2026. Pakistan’s importance has increased as a potential diplomatic channel to Iran, a role in Middle Eastern affairs, and a counterbalance to China’s influence.
According to the Washington Times, India’s “India First” era is over, and Pakistan’s geopolitical importance has become undeniable in 2025, reshaping the balance of power in South Asia and US foreign policy.
