Two U.S. lawmakers of Indian descent on Wednesday commented on the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. One urged Pakistan not to use the current situation as a pretext to further undermine democracy, while the other voiced strong support for India’s retaliatory strikes carried out earlier in the day (India time).
“In the wake of last month’s horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the need to combat terrorism and prevent future violence has become even more urgent. As Secretary Rubio stated, it is essential to avoid broader conflict and further escalation,” said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, adding, “At the same time, Pakistan must release former Prime Minister Imran Khan and ensure free and fair elections that uphold democratic values and give voice to the will of the Pakistani people. The current situation should not be used as a pretext to further undermine democracy in Pakistan.”
Meanwhile, Congressman Shri Thanedar expressed unequivocal support for India’s response. “Terrorism cannot be tolerated, and it cannot go unanswered. India has the right to defend its people, and I stand firmly with our ally in its efforts to dismantle these extremist networks,” he said.
He further added, “The United States should always stand with our allies against terrorism. This is a time for deeper U.S.-India cooperation to confront shared threats, protect innocent lives, and defend the principles of democracy, human rights, and religious freedom.”
Both Krishnamoorthi and Thanedar are Democrats, representing Illinois and Michigan respectively. They are two of the five Indian-American members of the U.S. House of Representatives, collectively referred to as the “Samosa Caucus.” The other three are Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, and Pramila Jayapal.
Krishnamoorthi, who on Wednesday announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate, was referencing a statement made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday. “I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely,” Rubio had said. “I echo POTUS’s comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution.”
—IANS
from National https://ift.tt/mIkdluF