Anti-Americanism in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistanis give three kinds of reasons for negative feelings about America. One involves U.S. policies toward Pakistan such as failure to come to Pakistan's aid during the Bangladesh crisis, using Pakistan for its own interests, and opposition to Pakistan's peaceful nuclear program. A second deals with American global policy, including support of Israel, opposition to Iran's present government, and use of force against small Third World nations. The third includes American involvement in Pakistan—for example, support of the military regime, obstructing a settlement of the Afghan issue, and responsibility for the decline in the value of the local currency. Most Pakistanis are uneasy about the relationship with America as opposed to being hostile. American support of Israel, India, and military dictators has undone a lot of the goodwill gained in other ways. Religious, ethnic, and cultural differences are rejected by most people as a basis of anti-American feelings. Speculation about interference in Pakistan's internal affairs and responsibility for former Prime Minister Bhutto's assassination have provided a basis for more ordinary people to develop feelings of anti-Americanism.