Washington : India’s Operation Sindoor, a series of missile strikes targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has not only rattled Islamabad but also drawn sharp international reactions. In a strong-worded statement, US Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna warned Pakistan against any retaliatory action, calling its army chief General Asim Munir a “dictator” and slamming the country for stifling democracy.
Speaking to CNN, Khanna acknowledged India’s right to defend itself and said,
“There was a terror attack in Pahalgam where innocent civilians were killed. India responded with targeted strikes that dismantled key terror networks. Now, the most important thing is to de-escalate tensions. Both countries are nuclear powers — restraint is crucial.”
India launched Operation Sindoor on the night of May 6–7, hitting nine terror camps across PoK and Pakistan. The operation was in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians.
Khanna urged the US to act as a diplomatic mediator, stressing the need for calm in the region. He also highlighted the historical complexities,
“The British left behind deep religious divisions during partition. Understanding this context is key. The US must be an honest broker, not a bystander.”
Direct Attack on Pakistan Army Chief
In an unusually blunt critique, Ro Khanna called General Asim Munir a “tyrant” and said democracy in Pakistan had all but vanished.
“Asim Munir has never allowed a fair election. He jailed Imran Khan and silenced all dissenting voices,” Khanna said. “We give Pakistan IMF loans — they depend on that support. The US should pressure Pakistan to release Imran Khan, avoid escalation, and ensure free and fair elections.”
Bipartisan Support for India in US
Khanna’s remarks follow growing bipartisan backing in Washington for India’s anti-terror stance.
Senator Jim Risch, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, also backed India’s actions. In a post on X, he said,
“I support India’s efforts to bring the Pahalgam attackers to justice, though the rising tensions with Pakistan are concerning. I urge both sides to show restraint and respect for civilian life.”
Another lawmaker, Congressman Shri Thanedar, also voiced strong support for India, saying:
“I firmly back our ally’s efforts to dismantle terrorist networks. Terrorism must not be tolerated and must be met with appropriate responses.”
He emphasized the importance of standing with allies like India in the global fight against terrorism, adding:
“This is the time for deepened India-US cooperation to face shared threats, protect innocent lives, and defend democratic values and religious freedom.”
Operation Sindoor: India Strikes Deep Inside Pakistan
India’s Operation Sindoor targeted JeM’s stronghold in Bahawalpur, more than 100 km inside Pakistani territory, according to intelligence reports. The strikes are being seen as a bold and unprecedented move by India to directly dismantle terror infrastructure following the Pahalgam massacre.
The operation has left Pakistan in a state of panic, with emergency alerts and flight operations suspended in multiple cities amid fears of further escalation.
