U. S. Regional Security Policy in South Asia

Abstract

The author discusses the three major objectives of U.S. Security policy in South Asia: (1) contain nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, East, & Central Asia; (2) prevent an India-Pakistan nuclear war; & (3) contain the roots of global transnational terrorism by eliminating terrorist havens in South Asia. In the discussion on nuclear proliferation, the author focuses on the Eisenhower administration's "Atoms for Peace" policy, the Carter administration's 'stick' approach of economic sanctions, & the Reagan's administration's use of a 'carrot' approach in the form of military & economic aid to Pakistan. The discussion of the India-Pakistan crises begins with the 1998 nuclear tests conducted by each country. Finally, the discussion on terrorism focuses on post 9/11 strategies to contain terrorism. J. Harwell