# What This Bill Does

This bill would remove Pakistan's special status as a "major non-NATO ally" of the United States. To understand what that means: the U.S. designates certain countries as major non-NATO allies to give them special benefits and closer military cooperation, even though they're not formal NATO members. Pakistan has held this designation for years, which has given it advantages like easier access to American military equipment, technology, and training. This bill would immediately end that designation once it becomes law.

# Why This Matters

The bill's main concern is about the Haqqani Network, a militant group that the U.S. considers a terrorist organization. According to the bill's sponsors, Pakistan hasn't done enough to stop this group from using Pakistani territory as a hiding place and launching pad for attacks in Afghanistan. By removing Pakistan's ally status, the bill aims to pressure Pakistan to take stronger action against the Haqqani Network. The bill does leave one door open: the President could restore Pakistan's status, but only if he certifies to Congress that Pakistan is actively fighting the Haqqani Network, preventing them from using Pakistani safe havens, coordinating with Afghanistan to stop militant movement across their border, and successfully arresting and prosecuting Haqqani leaders.

# Who Gets Affected

This primarily affects the U.S.-Pakistan military relationship and, indirectly, Afghanistan's security situation. Pakistan would lose military benefits and preferential treatment, which could strain diplomatic relations. For average Americans, this could influence U.S. military strategy in South Asia and how resources are allocated in that region. For Pakistanis, it could affect their country's defense capabilities and international standing.

To terminate the designation of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan as a major non-NATO ally, and for other purposes.

Biggs, Andy

 <p>This bill removes Pakistan's designation as a major non-NATO ally, a status that allows for various benefits such as access to excess U.S. defense supplies and participation in cooperative defense research and development projects. </p> <p>The President may not redesignate Pakistan a major non-NATO ally without certifying that the country has taken various actions against the Haqqani Network, including continuing to conduct military actions against the Taliban-affiliated group and prosecuting its leaders. </p>