"We need Pakistan, Pakistan needs us, but we don't need Pakistan double-dealing and not seeing the justice in bringing Usama bin Laden to an end," said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who pushed for the additional cut in aid.
He called Pakistan "a schizophrenic ally," helping the United States at one turn, but then aiding the Haqqani network which has claimed responsibility for several attacks on Americans. The group also has ties to al-Aida and the Taliban.
"It's Alice in Wonderland at best," said Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt. "If this is cooperation, I'd hate like hell to see opposition."
One of the most forceful statements came from Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., who also serves that the chairwoman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. She pointed out that Pakistan has suffered at the hands of terrorists yet misconstrued what is treason in convicting Afridi. She also insisted that Afridi was not a spy.
"This conviction says to me that al-Aida is viewed by the court to be Pakistan," said Feinstein, who said it made her rethink U.S. assistance.
The committee approved Graham's amendment to cut the assistance by $33 million on a 30-0 vote.
I say cut them off completely.
