The Lifeline of War: Pakistan's Logistical Role in Supporting US Military Operations in Afghanistan (2001–2021)
Abstract
This study examines and analyzes Pakistan’s pivotal role in providing logistical support for US military operations in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2021, a period marked by the dominance of extremist jihadist groups. It sheds light on the complex relationship between Washington and Islamabad, highlighting Pakistan’s geographic location as a vital conduit for US and allied forces, its significant cross-border intelligence capabilities (both land and air), and its crucial military and morale contributions. The study explores the historical origins of this relationship, the profound impact of Pakistan’s role in the struggle for survival of the strongest, stemming from its transnational religious and ethnic ties, and how Pakistan leveraged its logistical capabilities to influence US policy toward the Kabul government. The study concludes that the alliance was largely based on a mutually beneficial strategy. While trust between the two sides was not always absolute, shared interests played a decisive role in this long-standing relationship, despite fundamental differences. The study also examines the impact of the American withdrawal on the balance of power in Afghanistan, which shifted the balance in favor of emerging and increasingly influential powers.
Keywords:
Logistical
War
relationship
United States
How to Cite
Areef Hamedi , M. ., & H. D., W. (2026). The Lifeline of War: Pakistan’s Logistical Role in Supporting US Military Operations in Afghanistan (2001–2021). European Journal of Humanistic Studies and Social Dynamics, 2(2), 50-57. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19488241
License
Copyright (c) 2026 European Journal of Humanistic Studies and Social Dynamics
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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