For more than 70 years, the world has avoided nuclear war. However, the nuclear order is changing dramatically. Pakistan’s growing nuclear capabilities and ties to terrorist groups present an especially dangerous combination that the US cannot afford to overlook.
Pakistan, with its 170 nuclear warheads, is the world’s fastest-growing nuclear state. Its military and intelligence service have troubling connections to terrorist organizations, creating a complex challenge that demands urgent action.
Washington should establish a Joint US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Task Force to secure Pakistan’s nuclear assets.
Instability and US Aid
Pakistan’s internal instability compounds this nuclear threat. There are growing concerns about the potential for state disintegration, and the infiltration of its military and intelligence services by individuals with terrorist ties exacerbates the danger.
Without focused US engagement, this instability could lead to the theft of a nuclear weapon or sabotage of a nuclear facility.
Despite receiving over $78.3 billion in US military and economic support between 1948 and 2016 — much of it aimed at counterterrorism — Pakistan continues to support extremist groups like the Taliban.
Additionally, the long-running territorial dispute with India over Kashmir poses a significant risk of escalation, potentially spiraling into a nuclear conflict.
The US cannot afford to maintain the status quo.
The Case for a Joint US-Pakistan Task Force
A Joint US-Pakistan Task Force is a necessary step to enforce oversight, improve collaboration, and secure Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.
Such a framework would ensure better control over critical aspects of nuclear security while strengthening strategic ties between the two nations.
By enhancing cooperation between military and intelligence agencies, both countries could more effectively identify and neutralize emerging threats, leveraging their combined expertise in counterterrorism and human intelligence.
The task force would also enhance nuclear security through specialized training. US experts in nuclear security and cyber defense could train Pakistani forces to strengthen their operational readiness.
Joint nuclear security drills — often referred to as “Armageddon Tests” — could help identify vulnerabilities and prevent breaches at nuclear sites. This proactive approach is vital for addressing personnel weaknesses and ensuring the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear infrastructure.
Deterrence, Sovereignty, and Regional Tensions
The presence of US military personnel in Pakistan would also serve as a powerful deterrent to terrorist organizations.
US involvement in securing nuclear facilities would reduce the likelihood of terrorist infiltration and demonstrate the seriousness of nuclear security to adversaries.
Of course, the establishment of a US military presence in Pakistan could heighten regional tensions, particularly with India. The territorial dispute over Kashmir remains unresolved, and any conflict across the line of control could escalate rapidly.
However, diplomatic efforts could help manage these tensions. The US could make it clear to regional actors, including India, that the task force’s mission is strictly defensive and aimed at securing nuclear sites, not altering the strategic balance in the region.
Preventing Nuclear Catastrophe
The global community cannot afford to let nuclear weapons fall into the wrong hands. By establishing a Joint US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Task Force, the US would not only safeguard against nuclear terrorism but also reinforce its leadership in the fight for global security.
This partnership would stabilize the region, prevent nuclear theft, and create a safer world. The time to act is now.
Timor Nawabi is currently pursuing a master’s degree in security policy studies with a concentration in Science and Technology, focusing mainly on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, at the Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University.
He previously worked as a Senior Media Analyst and Public Diplomacy Advisor at NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division.
Timor is fluent in Persian/Dari, Pashto, and Urdu and is proficient in German, Arabic, and Russian. He has extensive knowledge of modern technology, including programming languages and artificial intelligence, and has experience writing policy memos, conducting policy analysis, and leading programs and sensitive projects.
Additionally, Timor has a deep understanding of cybercrime and has authored several research papers on cyber-related topics, using both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of The Defense Post.
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