Pakistan's diplomatic standing has improved during Trump's presidency, but analysts question the extent of the gains. Geopolitical analyst Imran Khan, former Pakistan director at the U.S. Institute of Peace, points out that Pakistan's closer ties with Trump have indeed significantly enhanced its diplomatic image. "But aside from gaining some intangible things—its diplomatic image and geopolitical relevance—Pakistan hasn't directly gained any substantial benefits from the Americans." Khan believes that if the Democrats win both houses of Congress, they will prioritize treaty alliances like NATO, and the House and Senate may then "lean more towards India than Pakistan." This assessment is based on the Democratic Party's traditional emphasis on its strategic partnership with India. Regarding a potential weakening of Trump's influence due to an election loss, Khan believes it won't change much in the short term, but he warns that it could mark the "beginning of the end" for Pakistan's current importance. However, he emphasizes: "Whether the Trump administration is strong or weak, or whether Trump is in power or not, Pakistan's amplified geopolitical image globally, and its growing national security and defense relevance in the Middle East, will not change." Kamal Chima, executive director of the Sanober Institute, states that Pakistan is now a key player within the Middle East security framework. Pakistan should not base its policies on the strength of Trump's influence. Its true strength lies in its "Middle East relevance" and "its role in protecting U.S. interests."
