cendorsing another that links aid to the reopening of Nato supply routes.

The amendment to “cut off every cent” to Pakistan “because it’s being used for evil purposes” came from Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, a California Republican who also seeks to make Balochistan an independent state.

Congressman Gerry Connolly, a Virginia Republican, made a huge impact on the lawmakers when he proposed withholding funds from the Coalition Support Fund “until the US Secretary of Defence certifies that Pakistan has opened the Ground Lines of Communication, is allowing the transit of Nato supplies through Pakistan into Afghanistan, and is supporting the retrograde of US equipment out of Afghanistan”.

As many as 412 out of 435 voting members backed his proposal. Only one voted against him.

If Islamabad fails to reopen Nato supply lines, this amendment could really hurt Pakistan as it will force the country to bear all the expenses of a costly but crucial war without outside support.

The White House, however, has strongly objected to imposing new restrictions on Pakistan, telling the lawmakers that President Barack Obama may veto such moves even if they endorse them.