United State ‘State Department’ Spokesperson Matthew Miller affirmed on Wednesday that the United States supports Pakistan in its efforts to combat terrorism.
“Pakistanis have suffered greatly from terrorist attacks. No country should endure such acts of terror. The United States and Pakistan share an interest in addressing threats to regional security. We endorse Pakistan’s actions to fight terrorism and ensure the safety of its citizens, promoting the rule of law and human rights. Our security partnership includes high-level discussions on counterterrorism, funding robust capacity-building programs, and supporting military engagements between the US and Pakistan,” he stated during a media briefing in response to questions about Pakistan’s new operation and the US reaction to its announcement.
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Miller also commented on the recent mob lynching in Swat, where a man accused of blasphemy was killed after being taken from a police station.
“We are deeply troubled by these reports. Our condolences go out to the victim’s family, and we hope for a swift recovery for those injured in the violence,” he said.
He emphasized that any violence or intimidation against individuals is unacceptable, and the US opposes blasphemy laws worldwide, including in Pakistan, which threaten basic human rights and freedoms, such as the freedom of religion.
Regarding the destruction of graves in Punjab province under pressure from Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), Miller reiterated the US’s call for Pakistani authorities to uphold the rights and freedoms of all individuals, including religious freedom, expression, association, and peaceful assembly.
When asked about Pakistan’s long-standing presence on the Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) list due to human rights concerns, Miller stated, “We regularly discuss human rights issues with Pakistani officials, focusing on religious freedom and the treatment of religious minorities.”
He noted that these concerns are addressed not only through Pakistan’s CPC designation but also in the US Department’s annual reports on International Religious Freedom and Human Rights Practices.
