US Motives for Aiding Pakistan

Imam Dheri, in Pakistan, has been severely flooded, causing the loss of more than 1,000 lives. 

This flood is the worst in Pakistan’s history, claiming 1,100 fatalities, wiping out whole villages, destroying 14,000 houses and 22 schools, and leaving survivors stranded and anxiously awaiting rescue, according to an article by The Huffington Post.

The catastrophe has also caused an opening in the US war against Islamic Militants as both sides compete over delivering aid to a region that is under constant threat of the Taliban.  While both the US and other Islamic Militants put forth efforts to help those affected by the flood, the victims are running out of resources and are becoming desperate.  It is apparent that the death toll could increase daily if help is not received quickly and efficiently.

By providing $10 million in support for the crisis, the Obama administration hopes to gain more popularity in Pakistan with its war on terror in Afghanistan.  Although it is noble to provide aid to an area in serious need, political strategy seems to be a possible and likely motive for the US.