Congressman Brad Sherman confronts Pakistani delegation, urging elimination of terrorist group and protection of minorities.
Washington, DC: A Pakistani delegation led by former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari faced sharp criticism from senior US Congressman Brad Sherman during a recent meeting in Washington. Sherman pressed Pakistan to dismantle the terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and ensure the safety of minorities in the country, highlighting ongoing concerns about terrorism and human rights abuses.
Sherman’s Stern Message on Terrorism
During the meeting, Sherman emphasized the need for Pakistan to take decisive action against JeM, a UN-designated terrorist group responsible for numerous attacks, including the 2002 abduction and murder of American journalist Daniel Pearl. “I underscored the importance of combating terrorism, particularly urging the elimination of Jaish-e-Mohammed,” Sherman posted on X, referencing Pearl’s killing, for which Omar Saeed Sheikh was convicted. The congressman’s remarks came as a Pakistani delegation visited the US, coinciding with an Indian parliamentary delegation led by Shashi Tharoor, which briefed American officials on India’s anti-terrorism efforts following the April 22 Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor.
Demand for Dr. Shakil Afridi’s Release
Sherman also called for the release of Dr. Shakil Afridi, who aided the CIA in locating Osama bin Laden, leading to the Al-Qaeda leader’s elimination in 2011. Afridi was arrested by Pakistani authorities post-raid and sentenced to 33 years in prison. “Releasing Dr. Afridi is a critical step for justice, especially for 9/11 victims,” Sherman stated. His demand reflects long-standing US concerns over Pakistan’s treatment of Afridi, viewed as a hero by many in the West but a traitor by some in Pakistan.
Concerns Over Religious Freedom
Expressing alarm over religious persecution, Sherman highlighted the plight of Pakistan’s minority communities. “Christians, Hindus, and Ahmadi Muslims must be allowed to practice their faith and participate in democracy without fear of violence, harassment, or discrimination,” he said. According to a 2024 US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report, Pakistan remains a “Country of Particular Concern” due to systematic violations of religious freedom, including forced conversions and blasphemy laws disproportionately affecting minorities.
Context of the Diplomatic Clash
The exchange occurred against the backdrop of heightened US-Pakistan tensions over terrorism. A 2023 report by the US State Department noted that Pakistan continues to serve as a safe haven for certain terrorist groups, despite its claims of counterterrorism efforts. Sherman’s remarks align with Washington’s broader push for accountability, especially as Pakistan seeks to strengthen ties with the US amid economic challenges. Meanwhile, the Indian delegation’s visit underscored New Delhi’s proactive stance against cross-border terrorism, further spotlighting Pakistan’s record.
Global Reactions and Implications
Sherman’s outspoken criticism has sparked discussions on social media and among analysts. On X, users debated Pakistan’s commitment to counterterrorism, with some praising Sherman’s bluntness and others defending Bhutto’s diplomatic efforts. Experts suggest that such public rebukes could strain US-Pakistan relations, especially as Islamabad navigates its role in Afghanistan and regional security. “Pakistan must address these concerns to regain international trust,” said Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert at the Wilson Center.