Drone Attacks in Pakistan during the Obama Era: Impact on the US–Pakistan Relations

Abstract

Aim of the Study: The research investigates consequences of the drone attacks by the United States in Pakistan during Obama government (2009-2017). Apparently, the drone strikes were aimed at removing militant threats; however, the strikes instigated national level resentment across Pakistan owing to perceived notions of violations of state sovereignty, extensive civilian deaths and causalties. The research is an attempt to comprehend how such remote-controlled operations impacted the US-Pak relations and catalyzed anti-American feelings leading to recessed bilateral cooperation.

Methodology: The research uses framework of Constructivism to examine how concepts of identity, norms and perceptions have impacted public discourse and official policy responses in Pakistan. The research is completed using primary data- declassified documents and newspaper reports have been used for analysis which was acquired by accessing different digital archives and newspapers. 

Findings: The results reflect a complex paradox: The drone attacks inside Pakistan, owing to their precision, are backed by some sections of local populations in stark opposition to national outcry and diplomatic resentment.  Findings of the research highlight rigidity between security essentials and global legal norms, raising critical questions regarding responsibility, legitimacy and long-term apprehensions of remote conflict on international relations and domestic politics inside Pakistan.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the drone strikes, during Obama era, significantly impacted the US-Pak relations;. Importantly, the issue brought to fore critical questions of sovereignty, legality and collateral damage in the form of civilian deaths and causalties. There were sections of population that backed the attacks for their precision and effective bulwark against the militants;. There were others who considered these strikes as a continuous violation of national dignity and a source of anti-American feelings amongst the Pakistani populace. The attacks were shrouded in secrecy and absence of the host-state recognition intensified the public outrage and diplomatic tensions.