(By: Asim Siddiqui, Washington, DC)
(Publish from Houston Texas USA)
A letter signed by 44 members of the U.S. Congress has triggered strong reactions in Pakistan, after lawmakers in Washington called for sanctions on Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir and several other officials over alleged human rights violations and political repression. The letter — led by Representatives Pramila Jayapal and Greg Casar — cites concerns related to U.S.-based journalist Ahmed Noorani, musician Salman Ahmad, and reports of crackdowns on protesters, minorities, and political opponents.
Reports circulating in the media suggest that Ahmed Noorani, while living in the United States, obtained sensitive information from Pakistani federal officials — a matter that has been widely debated. Noorani continues to make aggressive comments on Pakistan’s internal affairs from abroad. Salman Ahmad, meanwhile, is known for actively promoting Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s narrative among the Pakistani diaspora in the U.S.
Despite the congressional letter, Pakistan views this development as political pressure rather than a shift in official U.S. policy. Islamabad has made it clear that the United States cannot interfere in Pakistan’s internal affairs, nor can it influence decisions related to political detainees or judicial processes. Should any sanctions ever be imposed, Pakistan emphasizes, they would apply only to individuals — not the Pakistani state.
Officials in Islamabad maintain that the letter appears to reflect the influence of overseas lobbying groups and does not represent the formal position of the U.S. State Department. Pakistan’s Foreign Office is expected to issue an official response, underscoring national sovereignty and rejecting external interference. Diplomatic engagement with Washington is also anticipated, as Pakistan seeks clarity on whether the U.S. administration is genuinely considering such sanctions.
Analysts note that while the development indicates growing tension between the two countries, it does not amount to a diplomatic crisis. Pakistan’s stance remains firm: all decisions regarding its governance, institutions, and political future will be made within Pakistan — not under pressure from foreign lawmakers.
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