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Claim by Pakistani Expert: Imtiaz Gul, a Pakistani security expert, claims that Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi is under de facto US control.
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Controversy in Pakistan: The revelation has sparked outrage in Pakistan, raising concerns about national sovereignty, military transparency, and foreign influence.
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Strategic Importance: Nur Khan Airbase is a critical military and civilian facility near Islamabad, close to Pakistan’s military headquarters and nuclear assets.
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US Operations: Allegedly, US military personnel operate at the airbase, with restricted access even for high-ranking Pakistani officials.
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Geopolitical Implications: The claim raises questions about Pakistan’s sovereignty, its nuclear program, and its relations with the US, India, and China
A shocking claim has recently surfaced in Pakistan, causing widespread controversy. Pakistani security expert Imtiaz Gul alleges that Nur Khan Airbase, a key military facility in Rawalpindi, is under US control. This revelation has raised serious concerns about Pakistan’s sovereignty, national security, and foreign influence. In this article, we explore the details of this claim, its implications, and its geopolitical significance.
What is Nur Khan Airbase?
Nur Khan Airbase, located in Rawalpindi near Islamabad, is one of Pakistan’s most important airbases. Previously known as Chaklala Airbase, it serves both military and civilian purposes. The airbase handles VIP civilian flights, including those for the President, Prime Minister, and foreign dignitaries. Its strategic location near Pakistan’s General Headquarters (GHQ) and nuclear assets makes it a critical infrastructure.
The Shocking Claim
In a recent television interview, Imtiaz Gul claimed that Nur Khan Airbase is under de facto US control. According to him, the US military operates at the airbase, and even high-ranking Pakistani officials are denied access to certain sections. Gul also mentioned a secret agreement between the US and Pakistan, allowing US aircraft, such as C-17s and special operations planes, to operate without inspections. These operations are reportedly non-transparent, fueling public outrage.
Pakistan – A US puppet?
This claim has again put the worthlessness of Pakistan and Hypocrisy of West on the limelight.
Sovereignty: A foreign power controls a key asset of a country. What can be more shameful for a country than that? The insolent country that Stole the Nuclear Power, that has always begged nations for money and whose only achievement is brewing of terror.
US Pak Love story : US has a history of blind love towards Pakistan. During the 1965 war, US armed Pakistan with Highly advanced fighter jets and the Patton tanks. Pakistan used these to attack India sensing it to be weak. This was the time when both Indian Air Force and Indian Army displayed unmatched bravery. The Indian Air Force actually fought against the advance PAF with less advance aircrafts and won many battles. The Gnats of IAF earned the nickname of Sabre Slayers. Havilder Abdul Hameed destroyed American Patton tanks with a recoilless gun mounted on a jeep. There are many other bravery stories that came out of that war.
During 1971, the Army of Pakistan was killing people and raping women in modern day Bangladesh (East Pakistan at that time). India had engaged in war over the issues and overwhelmed Pakistan. Thousands of miles away, pain of Pakistan hurt the US nerves. Completely ignoring the crimes and atrocities done by Pakistan, they ran to save Pakistan. US forced Britain to send its aircraft carrier to attack India. Later it sent its own task force to attack India. It was due to the Russia that India was able to avoid unnecessary battle. There is a reason why India still respects Russia. Russia has single handedly prevented other countries especially US from attacking India.
Not the first instance?
This is not the first time the US has been linked to Pakistani airbases. During the War on Terror (post-9/11), the US used bases like Shamsi Airbase for drone strikes and intelligence operations. These activities were halted after public outcry, particularly following the killing of Osama bin Laden in 2011. However, Gul’s claim suggests that covert agreements may still allow US operations in Pakistan.
Strategic Implications
The alleged US control over Nur Khan Airbase has far-reaching implications:
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Surveillance and Intelligence: Experts believe the US could use the airbase for surveillance and reconnaissance in the region, targeting Afghanistan, Iran, or China.
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Nuclear Monitoring: The airbase’s proximity to Pakistan’s nuclear assets suggests the US may be monitoring or controlling Pakistan’s nuclear program.
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Logistical Hub: The airbase could serve as a hub for CIA operations, special missions, or evacuation of US personnel in the region.
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Geopolitical Tensions: The claim could strain Pakistan’s relations with China, a key ally, as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes near Rawalpindi. Iran may also express concerns about US presence.
Why Would Pakistan Allow This?
Several factors might explain why Pakistan permits US operations:
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Military Aid: Pakistan, facing economic challenges, may use the airbase as leverage to secure US military aid, such as fighter jets or equipment.
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Strategic Deterrence: Pakistan’s security establishment might believe US presence deters Indian aggression, though recent events suggest otherwise.
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Intelligence Sharing: The US could provide Pakistan with satellite data, drone intelligence, or other surveillance support in exchange.
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Diplomatic Protection: Pakistan benefits from US support in international forums like the IMF and FATF, avoiding blacklisting and securing loans.
Geopolitical Impact
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India’s Perspective: India may view this as Pakistan’s hypocrisy, given Pakistan’s criticism of India’s ties with the US while allegedly allowing US control over its airbase.
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China’s Concerns: China, a close ally of Pakistan, may see US presence as a threat to CPEC and regional influence, potentially prompting diplomatic action.
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Public Outrage in Pakistan: The lack of official clarification fuels public distrust in the military and government, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
The claim of US control over Nur Khan Airbase is a significant and unverified revelation. If true, it could compromise Pakistan’s sovereignty, national security, and regional relations. The absence of an official response from Pakistan’s military or government only adds to the speculation. As the situation unfolds, the public and parliament will likely demand answers. This controversy highlights the complex dynamics of Pakistan’s relationship with the US and its impact on regional geopolitics.
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Also Read:
1. Pakistani Expert claims Nur Khan Base under US control. Even Pak army personals not allowed.