Editing Pakistan (section)

== Government and politics ==
{{Main|Government of Pakistan|Politics of Pakistan}}
[[File:Parliament House, Islamabad by Usman Ghani.jpg|thumb|right|[[Parliament of Pakistan|Parliament House]]]]
Pakistan operates as a democratic [[Parliamentary republic|parliamentary]] [[federal republic]], with Islam designated as the [[state religion]].{{sfn|Inter-Parliamentary Union|1973}}{{sfn|Munir|1975}} Initially adopting a [[Constitution of Pakistan of 1956|constitution in 1956]], Pakistan saw it suspended by Ayub Khan in 1958, replaced by a [[Constitution of Pakistan of 1962|second constitution]] in 1962.{{sfn|Cohen|2004|page=65}} A comprehensive [[Constitution of Pakistan|constitution]] emerged in 1973, suspended by Zia-ul-Haq in 1977 but reinstated in 1985, shaping the country's governance.{{sfn|Factbook|2024}} The military's influence in mainstream politics has been significant throughout Pakistan's history.{{sfn|Cohen|2004}} The eras of 1958–1971, [[1977 Pakistani coup d'état|1977–1988]], and 1999–2008 witnessed [[Military coups in Pakistan|military coups]], leading to [[Martial law in Pakistan|martial law]] and military leaders governing de facto as presidents.{{sfn|Tertrais|Sokolski|2013}} Presently, Pakistan operates a [[multi-party system|multi-party]] [[parliamentary system]],{{sfn|He|Breen|Allison-Reumann|2023}} with distinct [[Check and balance|checks and balances]] among government branches.{{sfn|Bloor|2023}} The first successful [[2013 Pakistani general election|democratic transition]] occurred in May 2013.{{sfn|B. Chakma|2014}} Pakistani politics revolves around a blend of [[Socialism in Pakistan|socialism]], [[Conservatism in Pakistan|conservatism]], and the [[third way]],{{sfn|Chengappa|2002}} with the three main political parties being the conservative PML (N), socialist PPP, and [[Centre politics|centrist]] PTI.{{sfn|CRS|2023}} Constitutional amendments in 2010 curtailed presidential powers, enhancing the role of the prime minister.{{sfn|Rafiq|Ahmad|2016}}
* [[Head of State]]: The ceremonial head of the state and civilian [[commander-in-chief]] of the [[Pakistan Armed Forces]] is the [[President of Pakistan|President]], elected by an [[Electoral College of Pakistan|Electoral College]].{{sfn|CRS|2023}} The [[Prime Minister of Pakistan|Prime Minister]] advises the President on key appointments, including military and judicial positions, and the President is constitutionally bound to act on this advice.{{sfn|Aziz|2018}}{{sfn|F. Hussain|2015}} The President also holds powers to pardon and grant clemency.{{sfn|Mahmood|1965}}
* [[Legislative]]: The [[bicameral]] legislature includes a 96-member [[Senate of Pakistan|Senate]] ([[Upper House|upper house]]) and a 336-member [[National Assembly of Pakistan|National Assembly]] ([[Lower House|lower house]]). [[Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan|National Assembly members]] are elected via [[first-past-the-post]] under [[universal adult suffrage]], representing National Assembly [[Constituencies of Pakistan|constituencies]]. The constitution reserves 70 seats for women and religious minorities, allocated to political parties based on proportional representation. Senate members are elected by provincial legislators, ensuring equal representation across all provinces.{{sfn|Yap|Abeyratne|2023|page=272}}

[[File:A night side view of Prime Minister's Secretariat Building.jpg|thumb|left|[[Prime Minister's Office (Pakistan)|Prime Minister's Office]]]]

* Executive: The Prime Minister, typically the leader of the [[majority rule]] party or coalition in the National Assembly (the lower house),{{sfn|Dowding|Dumont|2014}} serves as the country's chief executive and head of government. Responsibilities include forming a [[Cabinet of Pakistan|cabinet]],{{sfn|Zierke|Stockmann|Meyer|2023}} making executive decisions,{{sfn|Aziz|2018}} and appointing senior civil servants, subject to executive confirmation.{{sfn|Establishment Division|2013}}
* [[List of provincial governments of Pakistan|Provincial governments]]: Each of the [[Four Provinces (Pakistan)|four provinces]] follows a similar governance system, with a directly elected [[:Category:Provincial Assemblies of Pakistan|Provincial Assembly]] choosing the [[Chief Minister (Pakistan)|Chief Minister]], usually from the largest party or coalition. Chief Ministers lead the provincial cabinet and oversee provincial governance.{{sfn|Mahmood|2007}}{{sfn|IFES|2013}} The [[Chief Secretary (Pakistan)|Chief Secretary]], appointed by the Prime Minister, heads the provincial bureaucracy.{{sfn|Establishment Division|2021}} Provincial assemblies legislate and approve the provincial budget, typically presented by the provincial finance minister annually.{{sfn|IFES|2013}}{{sfn|Ahmad|Asif|2007}} Ceremonial heads of provinces, the Provincial Governors, are appointed by the President based on the binding advice of the Prime Minister.{{sfn|Mahmood|2007}}{{sfn|Senate of Pakistan|2018}}

[[File:Supreme Court of Pakistan, Islamabad by Usman Ghani.jpg|thumb|right|[[Supreme Court of Pakistan]]]]

* [[Judiciary of Pakistan|Judicature]]: The judiciary in Pakistan has two classes: the superior and subordinate judiciary. The superior judiciary includes the [[Supreme Court of Pakistan]],{{sfn|Wu|Bandyopadhyay|Lee|2021}} [[Federal Shariat Court]], and five [[High courts of Pakistan|high courts]],{{sfn|Jha|2016}} with the Supreme Court at the top. It's responsible for safeguarding the constitution.{{sfn|Wu|Bandyopadhyay|Lee|2021}} Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan have their own court systems.{{sfn|Oberst|2018}}{{sfn|Ejaz|2022}}

=== Role of Islam ===
{{See also|Islam in Pakistan}}
Pakistan, the only country established in the name of Islam,{{sfn|Esposito|2003}} had overwhelming support among Muslims, especially in provinces like the [[United Provinces (1937–50)|United Provinces]], where Muslims were a minority.{{R|Dhulipala-2015-1}} This idea, articulated by the Muslim League, the [[ulama|Islamic clergy]], and Jinnah, envisioned an [[Islamic state]].{{R|Dhulipala-2015-2}} Jinnah, closely associated with the ''ulama'', was described upon his death by [[Maulana Shabbir Ahmad Usmani]] as the greatest Muslim after [[Aurangzeb]], aspiring to unite Muslims worldwide under Islam.{{R|Dhulipala-2015-3}}

The Objectives Resolution of March 1949 marked the initial step towards this goal, affirming God as the sole sovereign.{{R|Hussain-2008-2|Haqqani-2010-1}} Muslim League leader [[Chaudhry Khaliquzzaman]] asserted that Pakistan could only truly become an Islamic state after bringing all believers of Islam into a single political unit.{{R|Dhulipala-2015-4}} Keith Callard observed that Pakistanis believed in the essential unity of purpose and outlook in the Muslim world, expecting similar views on religion and nationality from Muslims worldwide.{{R|Haqqani-2010-2}}

[[File:Eid prayers at the Badshahi Mosque.JPG|thumb|327x327px|[[Eid prayers]] at the [[Badshahi Mosque]] in Lahore]]

Pakistan's desire for a united Islamic bloc, called Islamistan, wasn't supported by other Muslim governments,{{R|Haqqani-2010-3}} though figures like the Grand Mufti of Palestine, [[Amin al-Husseini|Al-Haj Amin al-Husseini]], and leaders of the [[Muslim Brotherhood]] were drawn to the country. Pakistan's desire for an international organization of Muslim countries was fulfilled in the 1970s when the [[Organisation of Islamic Cooperation|Organization of Islamic Conference]] (OIC) was formed.{{R|Haqqani-2010-4}} East Pakistan's Bengali Muslims, opposed to an Islamist state, clashed with West Pakistanis who leaned towards Islamic identity.{{sfn|Haqqani|2010|page=19}}{{R|Cochrane-2009}} The Islamist party [[Jamaat-e-Islami]] backed an Islamic state and opposed [[Bengali nationalism]].{{sfn|Lintner|2002}}

After the 1970 general elections, the Parliament crafted the [[Constitution of Pakistan|1973 Constitution]].{{R|Diamantides-Gearey-2011-1}} It declared Pakistan an Islamic Republic, with Islam as the state religion, and mandated laws to comply with Islamic teachings laid down in the [[Quran]] and [[Sunnah]] and that no law repugnant to such injunctions could be enacted.{{sfn|Iqbal|2009}} Additionally, it established institutions like the Shariat Court and the [[Council of Islamic Ideology]] to interpret and apply Islam.{{R|Diamantides-Gearey-2011-2}}

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto faced opposition under the banner of ''Nizam-e-Mustafa'' ("Rule of the [[Muhammad|Prophet]]"),{{sfn|Nasr|1996}} advocating an Islamic state. Bhutto conceded to some Islamist demands before being ousted in a coup.{{sfn|Kepel|2006}}

General Zia-ul-Haq, after seizing power, committed to establishing an Islamic state and enforcing ''[[sharia]]'' law.{{sfn|Kepel|2006}} He instituted Shariat judicial courts,{{R|Diamantides-Gearey-2011-3}} and court benches,{{sfn|Haqqani|2010|page=400}}{{sfn|Asia Watch Committee (U.S.)|1992}} to adjudicate using Islamic doctrine.{{R|Wynbrandt-2009}} Zia aligned with Deobandi institutions,{{R|Syed-Pio-Kamran-Zaidi-2016-1}} exacerbating sectarian tensions with anti-Shia policies.{{R|Syed-Pio-Kamran-Zaidi-2016-2}}

Most Pakistanis, according to a [[Pew Research Center]] (PEW) poll, favor Sharia law as the official law,{{sfn|Ziegfeld|2016}} and 94 percent of them identify more with religion than nationality compared to Muslims in other nations.{{sfn|PRC|2011}}

=== Administrative units ===
{{Main|Administrative units of Pakistan}}
{| class="sortable wikitable"
|-
! style="width:200px;"| {{nobr|Administrative unit}}{{sfn|Nee|2013}}
! style="width:100px;"| {{nobr|Capital{{sfn|Wasti|2009}}{{sfn|Schuurmans|2023|page=63}}{{sfn|Fischer-Tahir|Naumann|2013}}}}
! style="width:100px; text-align:right;"| {{nobr|Population{{sfn|PBS|2023}}{{sfn|Hussain|2020}}{{sfn|Davis|2023}}}}
|-
||{{Flag|Balochistan}}|| [[Quetta]] || style="text-align:right;" | 14,894,402
|-
||{{flagcountry|Punjab, Pakistan}} || [[Lahore]] || style="text-align:right;" | 127,688,922
|-
||{{Flag|Sindh}}|| [[Karachi]] || style="text-align:right;" | 55,696,147
|-
||{{Flag|Khyber Pakhtunkhwa}} || [[Peshawar]] || style="text-align:right;" | 40,856,097
|-
||{{Flag|Gilgit-Baltistan}} || [[Gilgit]] || style="text-align:right;" | 1,492,924
|-
||{{Flag|Azad Kashmir}} || [[Muzaffarabad]] || style="text-align:right;" | 4,179,428
|-
||[[Islamabad Capital Territory]] ||[[Islamabad]] || style="text-align:right;" | 2,363,863
|}

Pakistan, a [[Federal republic|federal]] [[parliamentary republic]], consists of [[Four Provinces (Pakistan)|four provinces]]: Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan, along with three [[Administrative units of Pakistan|territories]]: [[Islamabad Capital Territory]], [[Gilgit-Baltistan]], and [[Azad Kashmir]].{{sfn|Adibelli et al.|2022}} The Government of Pakistan governs the [[Western Kashmir|western parts]] of the [[Kashmir Region]], organized into separate political entities, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.{{sfn|Jan|2015}} In 2009, the [[Constitution of Pakistan|constitutional assignment]] ({{small|the ''Gilgit–Baltistan Empowerment and Self-Governance Order''}}) granted Gilgit-Baltistan [[Provinces of Pakistan|semi-provincial status]], providing it with self-government.{{sfn|Lansford|Muller|2012}}

The [[Local government in Pakistan|local government]] system consists of [[Districts of Pakistan|districts]], [[tehsil]]s, and [[Union Councils of Pakistan|union councils]], with an elected body at each tier.{{sfn|Berman|Sabharwal|2017}}

{{Pakistan Administrative Units Image Map}}

=== Foreign relations ===
{{Main|Foreign relations of Pakistan}}

Since independence, Pakistan has aimed to maintain an independent foreign policy.{{sfn|Lodhi|2022}} Pakistan's [[Foreign policy of Pakistan|foreign policy]] and [[Pakistani geostrategy|geostrategy]] focus on the economy, security, [[Nationalism in Pakistan|national identity]], and territorial integrity, as well as building close ties with other Muslim nations.{{sfn|Hamid et al.|2023}} According to [[Hasan Askari Rizvi]], a foreign policy expert, "Pakistan highlights sovereign equality of states, bilateralism, mutuality of interests, and non-interference in each other's domestic affairs as the cardinal features of its foreign policy."{{sfn|Rizvi|2004}}

The [[Kashmir conflict]] remains a major issue between Pakistan and India, with three of their [[Indo-Pakistani wars and conflicts|four wars]] fought over it.{{sfn|Stewart-Ingersoll|Frazier|2012}} Due partly to strained relations with India, Pakistan has close ties with Turkey and Iran, both focal points in its foreign policy.{{sfn|Anwar|2006}} Saudi Arabia also holds importance in Pakistan's foreign relations.{{sfn|Pande|2011|page=167}}

As a non-signatory of the [[Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons|Treaty on Nuclear Non-Proliferation]], Pakistan holds influence in the [[International Atomic Energy Agency|IAEA]].{{sfn|Chakma|2012}} For years, Pakistan has blocked an [[Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty|international treaty]] to limit [[fissile material]], arguing that its stockpile does not meet its long-term needs.{{sfn|Kmentt|2021}} Pakistan's nuclear program in the 20th century aimed to counter India's nuclear ambitions in the [[South Asia|region]], and [[Pakistan's nuclear testing series|reciprocal nuclear tests]] ensued after India's [[Pokhran-II|nuclear tests]], solidifying Pakistan as a [[Nuclear power in Pakistan|nuclear power]].{{sfn|Izuyama|Ogawa|2003}} Pakistan maintains a policy of [[N-deterrence|Full spectrum deterrence]], considering its nuclear program vital for [[Pakistan and its Nuclear Deterrent Program|deterring]] foreign aggression.{{sfn|Noor|2023}}

[[File:SCO meeting (2022-09-16).jpg|thumb|Prime Minister [[Shehbaz Sharif]] at the 2022 [[Shanghai Cooperation Organisation]] summit{{sfn|Embassy of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Malta|2022}}]]

Located strategically in the world's major maritime oil supply lines and communication [[Optical fiber|fiber optic corridors]], Pakistan also enjoys proximity to the natural resources of Central Asian countries.{{sfn|Shah|1997}} Pakistan actively participates in the United Nations with a [[Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations|Permanent Representative]] representing its positions in international politics.{{sfn|Wasi|2005}} It has advocated for the concept of "[[enlightened moderation]]" in the Muslim world.{{sfn|Zahra|Bouckaert|Jadoon|Jabeen|2022}} Pakistan is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, [[South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation|SAARC]], [[Economic Cooperation Organization|ECO]],{{sfn|Turner|2016}}{{sfn|Kemal|2004}} and the [[G20 developing nations]].{{sfn|Hoekman|Kostecki|2009}}

[[File:Motorcade in Arrival Ceremonies for Muhammad Ayub Khan, President of Pakistan use.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|alt=(L–R) English: Motorcade for President Mohammad Ayub Khan of Pakistan. In open car (Lincoln-Mercury Continental with bubble top): Secret Service agent William Greer (driving); Military Aide to the President General Chester V. Clifton (front seat, centre); Secret Service Agent Gerald "Jerry" Behn (front seat, right, partially hidden); President Mohammad Ayub Khan (standing); President John F. Kennedy (standing). Crowd watching. 14th Street, Washington, D.C.| President of Pakistan [[Ayub Khan (general)|Ayub Khan]] with US President [[John F. Kennedy]] in 1961{{sfn|Picone|2020}}|left]]

Pakistan is designated as an "Iron Brother" by China, emphasizing the significance of their close and supportive [[China–Pakistan relations|relationship]].{{sfn|Qingyan|2021}} In the 1950s, Pakistan opposed the [[Soviet Union]] for geopolitical reasons. During the [[Soviet–Afghan War]] in the 1980s, it was a close ally of the United States.{{sfn|Rizvi|2004}} Relations with Russia have improved since the end of the [[Cold War]],{{sfn|Clary|2022}} but Pakistan's relationship with the United States has been "on-and-off."{{sfn|Rizvi|2004}} Initially a close ally during the Cold War,{{sfn|Karat|2007}} Pakistan's relations with the US soured in the 1990s due to [[Pressler amendment|sanctions]] over its secretive nuclear program.{{sfn|Mazzetti|2013}} Since [[September 11 attacks|9/11]], Pakistan has been a US ally on [[counterterrorism]], but their relationship has been strained due to diverging interests and mistrust during the [[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|20-year war]] and terrorism issues. Although Pakistan was granted [[major non-NATO ally]] status by the U.S. in 2004,{{sfn|Zaidi|Ahmad|2021}} it faced accusations of supporting the [[Taliban insurgency|Taliban insurgents]] in Afghanistan.{{sfn|Yousafzai|2021}}

Pakistan does not have formal [[Pakistan-Israel relations|diplomatic relations]] with [[Israel]]; nonetheless, an exchange occurred between the two countries in 2005, with Turkey acting as an intermediary.{{sfn|Zelnick|2013}}

==== Relations with China ====
{{Main|China–Pakistan relations}}
[[File:Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy and Zhou Enlai signing the Treaty of Friendship Between China and Pakistan in Beijing.jpg|upright=0.8|thumb|Pakistan Prime Minister [[Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy]] with Chinese Premier [[Zhou Enlai]] signing the Treaty of Friendship Between China and Pakistan.{{sfn|van Tonder|2018}} Pakistan is host to China's largest embassy.{{sfn|Schuurmans|2023|page=73}}]]

Pakistan was among the first nations to establish formal diplomatic ties with the China,{{sfn|Cohen|2011}} forging a strong relationship since China's [[Sino-Indian War|1962 conflict]] with India, culminating in a special bond.{{sfn|Schwinghammer|2018}} During the 1970s, Pakistan acted as an intermediary in U.S.-China rapprochement,{{sfn|Afridi|Bajoria|2010}} facilitating US President [[Richard Nixon]]'s [[1972 Nixon visit to China|historic visit]] to China.{{sfn|Roos|2024}}{{sfn|Lord|Mastro|Naftali|Brinkley|2022}} Despite changes in Pakistani governance and regional/global dynamics, China's influence in Pakistan remains paramount.{{sfn|Afridi|Bajoria|2010}} In reciprocation, China stands as Pakistan's largest trading partner, with substantial investment in Pakistani infrastructure, notably the [[Gwadar port]].{{sfn|Raju|2021}} In 2015 alone, they inked 51 agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for cooperative efforts.{{sfn|Rimmer|2020}} Both nations signed a [[China–Pakistan Free Trade Agreement|Free Trade Agreement]] in 2006,{{sfn|Zreik|2024}} with China making its largest investment in Pakistan's history through [[CPEC]].{{sfn|Dorsey|2018}} Pakistan acts as China's liaison to the Muslim world,{{sfn|Shih|2022}} and both nations support each other on sensitive issues like Kashmir, Taiwan, Xinjiang, and more.{{sfn|Pant|2011}}

==== Relations with the Muslim world ====
After Independence, Pakistan vigorously pursued bilateral relations with other Muslim countries.{{R|Pasha-2005-1}} The [[Maulana Muhammad Ali Jauhar|Ali]] brothers sought to project Pakistan as the natural leader of the Islamic world, partly due to its significant manpower and military strength.{{R|Pasha-2005-2}} [[Chaudhry Khaliquzzaman|Khaliquzzaman]], a prominent [[All India Muslim League|Muslim League]] leader, declared Pakistan's ambition to unite all Muslim countries into [[Islamistan]], a pan-Islamic entity.{{R|Dhulipala-2015-5}}

These developments, alongside Pakistan's creation, didn't receive approval from the United States, with British Prime Minister [[Clement Attlee]] expressing a hope for India and Pakistan to reunite.{{R|Haqqani-2013-1}} However, due to a nationalist awakening in the Arab world at that time, there was little interest in Pakistan's Pan-Islamic aspirations.{{R|Haqqani-2013-2}} Some Arab countries perceived the 'Islamistan' project as Pakistan's bid to dominate other Muslim states.{{R|Roberts-2003}}

Pakistan's founder, [[Muhammad Ali Jinnah]], consistently advocated for the [[Palestinian nationalism|Palestinian cause]], shaping Pakistan's foreign policy to support Palestinian rights within the broader framework of Muslim solidarity.{{sfn|Jafri|Sultana|Ijaz|2021}} During the [[Six-Day War|1967 Arab-Israel war]], Pakistan supported the Arab states and played a key role in securing Iran's backing for the Arab cause both within the U.N. and beyond.{{sfn|Arora|Grover|1995}}

Pakistan's relations with Iran have been strained by sectarian tensions,{{R|Hunter-2010}} with both Iran and Saudi Arabia using Pakistan as a battleground for their proxy sectarian war.{{R|Pande-2011-2}} Since the early days of the [[Iran–Iraq war]], President [[Zia-ul-Haq]] played an important mediatory role, with Pakistan actively engaging in efforts to end the conflict.{{sfn|Talbot|2020}}{{sfn|Rose|Husain|1985}} Pakistan provided support to Saudi Arabia during the [[Gulf War]].{{sfn|Halladay|Matei|Bruneau|2021}} Pakistan chose to remain neutral during [[Operation Decisive Storm]], refraining from sending military support to Saudi Arabia in its offensive against [[Yemen]]. Instead, Pakistan aimed to play a proactive diplomatic role in resolving the crisis,{{sfn|Panda|2019}} which led to tensions between the two countries.{{sfn|Halladay|Matei|Bruneau|2021}} In 2016, Pakistan mediated between Saudi Arabia and Iran following the execution of Shia cleric [[Nimr al-Nimr]], with visits to both countries by then Prime Minister [[Nawaz Sharif]] and the Chief of Army Staff, [[Raheel Sharif]].{{sfn|Basharat|2023}}

Pakistan provided refuge to millions of displaced Afghans after the [[Soviet–Afghan War|Soviet invasion]] and supported the [[Afghan mujahideen]] in their efforts to expel Soviet forces from Afghanistan.{{sfn|Riedel|2010}} After the Soviets withdrew, [[Afghan Civil War (1989–1992)|infighting erupted among Mujahideen factions]] over control of Afghanistan. Pakistan facilitated [[Peshawar Accord|peace talks]] to help end the conflict.{{sfn|Visoka|Richmond|2022}} After four years of unresolved conflict between rival Mujahideen groups, Pakistan helped establish the Taliban as a stabilizing force.{{sfn|Maizland|2023}} Pakistan's support for the Sunni Taliban in Afghanistan challenged Shia-led Iran, which opposed a Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.{{R|Pande-2011-2}}

Pakistan vigorously advocated for self-determination among Muslims globally. Its efforts in supporting independence movements in countries like Indonesia, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and [[Eritrea]] fostered strong ties.{{R|Pande-2011-1}} Due to its support for [[Azerbaijan]] in the [[Nagorno-Karabakh conflict]], Pakistan has not established [[Armenia–Pakistan relations|diplomatic relations]] with [[Armenia]].{{sfn|Berg|Kursani|2021}}{{sfn|Babayev|Schoch|Spanger|2019}}

Pakistan and Bangladesh have experienced strained relations, particularly under the [[Awami League]] governments led by [[Sheikh Hasina]], driven by her pro-India stance and historical grievances.{{sfn|Ahmed|Zahoor|2019}}

Pakistan, a prominent member of the [[Organisation of Islamic Cooperation]] (OIC), prioritizes maintaining cultural, political, social, and economic relations with Arab and other Muslim-majority nations in its foreign policy.{{sfn|Pande|2011}}

=== Kashmir conflict ===
{{Main|Kashmir conflict}}
[[File:Kashmir map.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|The areas shown in green are the Pakistani-controlled areas.{{sfn|CIA|1988}}]]
[[Kashmir]], a Himalayan region at the northern tip of the [[Indian subcontinent]], was governed as the autonomous [[princely state]] of [[Jammu and Kashmir (princely state)|Jammu and Kashmir]] during the [[British Raj]] before the [[Partition of India]] in August 1947. This sparked a [[Kashmir conflict|major territorial dispute]] between India and Pakistan, resulting in [[Indo-Pakistani wars and conflicts|several conflicts]] over the region. India controls about 45.1% of Kashmir, including [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]] and [[Ladakh]], while Pakistan controls roughly 38.2%, comprising [[Azad Kashmir|Azad Jammu and Kashmir]] and [[Gilgit-Baltistan|Gilgit−Baltistan]]. Additionally, about 20% of the region, known as [[Aksai Chin]] and the [[Trans-Karakoram Tract|Shaksgam Valley]], is under Chinese control.{{sfn|Kudaisya|Yong|2004}} India claims the entire Kashmir region based on the [[Instrument of Accession (Jammu and Kashmir)|Instrument of Accession]] signed by the princely state's ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh,{{sfn|Zahoor|Rumi|2020}} while Pakistan argues for its Muslim-majority population,{{sfn|Bhattacharyya|2023}} and geographical proximity to Pakistan.{{sfn|Raghavan|2012}} The United Nations was involved in resolving the conflict, leading to a ceasefire in 1949 and the establishment of the [[Line of Control]] (LoC) as a ''de facto'' border.{{sfn|Stone|2017}} India, fearing Kashmir's secession, did not hold the promised plebiscite, as it believed Kashmiris would vote to join Pakistan.{{R|Endrst-1965}}

Pakistan claims that its position is for the right of the [[Kashmiris|Kashmiri people]] to determine their future through impartial elections as mandated by the United Nations, while India has stated that Kashmir is an "[[Akhand Bharat|integral part]]" of India, referring to the [[Simla Agreement|1972 Simla Agreement]] and to the fact that [[Elections in Jammu and Kashmir|regional elections]] take place regularly.{{sfn|Khurshid|2016}} Certain Kashmiri independence groups believe that Kashmir should be independent of both India and Pakistan.{{sfn|Oldenburg|2019}}
{{Clear}}

=== Military ===
{{Main|Pakistan Armed Forces}}
<!--THIS SECTION IS A SUMMARY—PLEASE ADD NEW MATERIAL TO THE MAIN ARTICLE-->[[File:Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder flies in front of the 26,660 ft high Nanga Parbat.jpg|thumb|[[Pakistan Air Force]]'s [[JF-17 Thunder]] flying in front of the {{convert|26660|ft|m|adj=mid|abbr=off|-high|order=flip}} [[Nanga Parbat]]]]

Pakistan is considered a [[middle power]] nation,{{refn|name="Middle power nation"}}{{efn|name="RSCT"}} with the world's [[List of countries by number of military and paramilitary personnel|seventh-largest standing armed forces]] in terms of personnel size, comprising approximately 660,000 active-duty troops and 291,000 paramilitary personnel as of 2024.{{sfn|IISS|2024}} [[Military history of Pakistan|Established in 1947]], the [[armed forces of Pakistan]] wielded significant influence over [[Politics of Pakistan|national politics]].{{sfn|Bartholomees|2008}} The main branches include the [[Pakistan Army|Army]], [[Pakistan Navy|Navy]], and [[Pakistan Air Force|Air Force]], supported by numerous [[Civil Armed Forces|paramilitaries]].{{sfn|DeRouen|Heo|2005}}

The [[Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee|Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee]] (CJCSC) is the highest-ranking military officer, advising the civilian government. However, they lack direct command over the branches and serve as intermediaries, ensuring communication between the military and civilian leadership. Overseeing the [[Joint Staff Headquarters (Pakistan)|Joint Staff Headquarters]], they coordinate inter-service cooperation and joint military missions.{{sfn|Blood|1996|page=287}}

[[Nuclear command and control|Command and control]] over Pakistan's [[Pakistan's nuclear testing series|strategic arsenal]] development and employment is vested in the [[National Command Authority (Pakistan)|National Command Authority]], overseeing work on [[Nuclear Doctrine of Pakistan|nuclear doctrine]] to maintain [[Full spectrum deterrence]].{{sfn|Khan|2012}}

The United States, Turkey, and China maintain close military relations with [[Pakistan Armed Forces]], regularly exporting military equipment and [[technology transfer]].{{refn|name="Military relations"}} Pakistan was the 5th-largest recipient and importer of arms between 2019 and 2023.{{sfn|Wezeman et al.|2024}}

==== Military history ====
{{Main|Military history of Pakistan}}
Since 1947, Pakistan has been involved in [[Indo-Pakistani wars and conflicts|four]] [[Conventional warfare|conventional wars]] with India.{{sfn|Gates|Roy|2016}} The [[Indo-Pak war of 1947|first conflict]] took place in Kashmir and ended in a United Nations-mediated ceasefire, with Pakistan gaining control of one-third of the region.{{sfn|Oetzel|Ting-Toomey|2006}} Territorial disputes led to [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1965|another war in 1965]]. In 1971, India and Pakistan fought [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971|another war]] over [[East Pakistan]], with Indian forces aiding its independence, leading to the creation of [[Bangladesh]].{{sfn|Center for Preventive Action|2024}} Tensions in Kargil brought the two countries to the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1999|brink of war]].{{sfn|Busch|2014}}

Pakistan's primary intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), was established within a year of Pakistan's independence in 1947.{{sfn|Sprague|2020}} During the [[Soviet-Afghan War]], Pakistan's intelligence community, mostly the [[Inter-Services Intelligence|ISI]], [[Operation Cyclone|coordinated]] [[United States involvement in regime change|US resources]] to support [[Afghan mujahideen]] and [[Afghan Arabs|foreign fighters]] against Soviet presence.{{sfn|Rupert|1989}} The [[Pakistan Air Force|PAF]] engaged with [[Soviet Air Forces|Soviet]] and [[Afghan Air Force]]s during the [[Russian war in afghanistan|conflict]].{{sfn|Withington|2005}} Pakistan has been an active [[United Nations peacekeeping missions involving Pakistan|participant in UN peacekeeping missions]],{{sfn|de Coning|Aoi|Karlsrud|2017}} playing a major role in operations like the rescue mission in [[Mogadishu]], Somalia, in 1993.{{sfn|Stewart|2002}} According to a 2023 UN report, the Pakistani military was the fifth largest troop contributor to UN peacekeeping missions.{{sfn|UN|2023}}

Pakistan has [[Pakistan Armed Forces deployments|deployed its military]] in some Arab countries, providing defense, training, and advisory roles.{{sfn|Cordesman|1987}}{{sfn|Chengappa|2004}} The [[Pakistan Air Force|PAF]]'s fighter pilots participated in missions against Israel during the [[Six-Day War]] and the [[Yom Kippur War]].{{sfn|Faruqui|2019}} Pakistani [[Special Service Group|special forces]] assisted [[Saudi forces]] in [[Mecca]] during the [[Grand Mosque Seizure]].{{refn|name="Miller-2015"}} Pakistan also sent 5,000 troops as part of a US-led coalition for the defense of Saudi Arabia during the [[Gulf War]].{{sfn|Rizvi|1993}}

Despite the UN arms embargo on [[Bosnia]], the ISI under General [[Javed Nasir]] airlifted anti-tank weapons and missiles to Bosnian mujahideen, shifting the tide in favor of Bosnian Muslims. ISI, under Nasir's leadership, supported Chinese Muslims in [[Xinjiang]], rebel groups in the [[Philippines]], and religious groups in Central Asia.{{R|Wiebes-2003|Abbas-2015}}

Since 2001, the Pakistan military has been engaged in [[War in North-West Pakistan|counterinsurgency and internal security operations]] in the [[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]] province, primarily targeting [[Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan]] and associated militant groups. Major military operations conducted during this period include [[Operation Enduring Freedom]], [[Operation al-Mizan]], [[Operation Zalzala]], [[Operation Sherdil]], [[Operation Rah-e-Haq]], [[Operation Rah-e-Rast]], and [[Operation Rah-e-Nijat]].{{sfn|ZA Khan|2012}}

=== Law enforcement ===
{{Main|Law enforcement in Pakistan|Pakistani Intelligence Community}}
[[Law enforcement in Pakistan]] consists of federal and provincial police agencies. Each of the [[Administrative units of Pakistan|four provinces]] ([[Punjab, Pakistan|Punjab]], [[Sindh]], [[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]], and [[Balochistan, Pakistan|Balochistan]]) has its own police force, while the [[Islamabad Capital Territory|Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT)]] has the Islamabad Police.{{sfn|Jaishankar|2019}} Provincial police forces are led by an Inspector-General of Police (IGP), who is appointed from the federally recruited and trained [[Police Service of Pakistan]] (PSP) through a consultative process between the federal and provincial governments. All positions above the Assistant Superintendent level are filled from the PSP, ensuring national standards across provincial forces.{{sfn|Kureshi|Waseem|2024}}

'''Specialized Units:'''

* [[National Highways & Motorway Police]] (NHMP): Enforces traffic laws and ensures safety on Pakistan's inter-provincial motorway network.{{sfn|Imam|Fatima|2021}}
* Specialized Rapid Response Units: Specialized counter-terrorism units, such as the [[Elite Police|Punjab Elite Police Force]], have been trained by army commandos and exist in every province to respond to hostage situations and neutralize armed groups.{{sfn|Perito|Parvez|2024}}

The [[Civil Armed Forces]] (CAF) assist local law enforcement agencies and participate in border security and internal security operations, particularly in conflict-affected regions.{{sfn|Wolf|2019}}

In 2021, the [[National Intelligence Coordination Committee (Pakistan)|National Intelligence Coordination Committee]] was established to improve coordination among Pakistan's intelligence agencies. The inaugural meeting was attended by the heads of the [[Inter-Services Intelligence|ISI]], [[Intelligence Bureau (Pakistan)|IB]], and [[Federal Investigation Agency|FIA]].{{sfn|Saeed|2021}}

===Human rights===
{{Main|Human rights in Pakistan|LGBT rights in Pakistan}}
In 2024, Pakistan ranked 152 out of 180 countries in the [[Press Freedom Index]] by [[Reporters Without Borders]], highlighting restrictions on [[freedom of the press]].<ref name="RSF">{{cite web |title=Pakistan {{!}} RSF |url=https://rsf.org/en/country/pakistan |website=rsf.org |publisher=Reporters Without Borders |language=en |access-date=21 March 2025}}</ref> Television stations and newspapers face closures for publishing reports critical of the government or military.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jun/06/pakistani-news-channel-geo-suspended-isi|title=Pakistani TV news channel ordered off air after criticising spy agency|author=Jon Boone|work=The Guardian|date=6 June 2014}}<br />- {{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/greenslade/2014/jun/09/press-freedom-pakistan|title=Intimidated journalists in Pakistan cannot exercise press freedom|author=Roy Greenslade|work=The Guardian|date=9 June 2014}}<br />- {{cite news |title=Redlining the News in Pakistan |url=https://www.voanews.com/a/press-freedom_redlining-news-pakistan/6176260.html |work=VOA News |date=22 September 2019}}</ref> Male [[homosexuality]] is illegal in Pakistan, punishable with up to life in prison.<ref>{{cite news |title=The countries where homosexuality is still illegal |url=https://www.theweek.co.uk/96298/the-countries-where-homosexuality-is-still-illegal |work=The Week |date=12 June 2019 |access-date=22 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191128203653/https://www.theweek.co.uk/96298/the-countries-where-homosexuality-is-still-illegal |archive-date=28 November 2019 |url-status=dead }}<br />- {{cite news |title=Home Office refused thousands of LGBT asylum claims, figures reveal |url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2019/sep/02/home-office-refused-thousands-of-lgbt-asylum-claims-figures-reveal |work=The Guardian |date=2 September 2019}}</ref>