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Fact check: Has Pakistan supported or financed islamic terrorists?
1. Summary of the results
The evidence strongly indicates that Pakistan has systematically supported and financed Islamic terrorist organizations. Multiple sources confirm that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been providing direct funding, with estimates ranging from $25-50 million annually just for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) alone [1] [1]. This support has been acknowledged by Pakistani officials themselves, including Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto [2]. Former President Pervez Musharraf has also openly admitted to supporting terrorist groups [3].
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
Several important contextual elements are missing from the original question:
- The systematic support began during the Soviet-Afghan War in 1979, suggesting it was initially part of a broader Cold War strategy [1]
- This isn't just Pakistan acting alone - international bodies have taken action, with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) placing Pakistan on a "grey list" for terror financing [3]
- The support extends to multiple organizations, not just one group - including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) [1]
- Multiple countries including the US, UK, India, and Afghanistan have accused Pakistan of providing safe havens for terrorist groups [4]
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original question oversimplifies a complex geopolitical situation. Here are important considerations:
- The support of terrorist organizations appears to be a deliberate state policy, particularly targeting India [3], suggesting this isn't just random support but part of a strategic approach
- Multiple beneficiaries are involved:
The Pakistan Army and ISI maintain influence through these proxy groups [3]
Terrorist organizations like LeT and JeM benefit from infrastructure and funding [1]
- Some terrorist groups have maintained headquarters in Pakistan-administered territories, indicating a mutually beneficial relationship [4]
The evidence from multiple sources, including admissions from Pakistani officials themselves, provides a clear picture of state-sponsored support for terrorist organizations, though the motivations and strategic considerations behind this support are more complex than the original question suggests.