Converging Paths: Exploring the United States-India’s Strategic Partnership in the Post-9/11 Era and its Potential Implications for South Asia

Traditionally states are making friendships and alliances to counter common threat or create balance of power in their area of influence. Such is the case of India and US in South Asia. Before 9/11 they were good friend but after the 9/11 attacks US interests in the region significantly increased while India had already regional hegemonic ambitions, thus it led to the strategic alliance between India and US. Their alliance is the true manifestation of realist paradigm of security centric approach in relations among states. The United States (US) was once Pakistan's traditional friend, but due to divergent national interests and diverse geopolitical objectives, it has now tilt towards India. This partnership encompasses a variety of factors, including economic considerations, political incentives, security concerns, military and defence necessities, and, perhaps most significantly, strategic considerations. As a result, the ultimate base for the US-India partnership has stronger strategic characteristics, and everything is entwined by the strategic connection. Afghanistan, the trade deficit, space, information technology, containing Chinese influence in South Asia, and, most significantly, defence and nuclear motivations are at the top of the list of broader strategic motivations. it is evident that the US's extensive engagement with India is leading to jeopardize the South Asian’s security. It also led to Pakistan and China improved ties, thereby filling the absence of a foreign ally. Additionally, this presents numerous chances for South Asian countries to rethink their foreign policy priorities and move their emphasis from the West to the East. Due to the likelihood of numerous realignments, the US-India alliance will also advocate for regional alterations.