Pakistan’s offensive to eradicate the Taliban has brought about approximately 2 million refugees who fled the fighting in the northwest of the country. The Pakistani government has reminded potential international aid donors that the Taliban might take advantage of other countries’ failure to help. Some countries have already pledged $224 million in aid, including the $110 million promised by the United States.

The United Nations echoes Pakistan’s call for help. The UN describes the present situation in Pakistan as a ‘long-term humanitarian crisis’ that needs massive aid for the internally displaced people. The UN hopes to raise $600 million.

The US, on the other hand, is worried that Pakistan’s increased aid funds might be diverted ‘to strengthen its nuclear arsenal.’ Confidential briefings received by US legislators supposedly revealed Pakistan’s current efforts to build up its nuclear capability alongside fighting the Taliban insurgency.

Anti-Taliban forces that number about 15,000 soldiers are locked in fierce battle with some 4,000 to 5,000 insurgents in the Swat valley. More than 1,000 militants have been reportedly killed over a period of four weeks since the offensive began.

U.S. economic aid to Pakistan will amount to approximately $1.5 billion a year over the next five years. This is earmarked to fund Pakistani schools, the judicial system, parliament, and law enforcement agencies.

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Via Reuters