We support Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism: US state department

The US State Department expressed its support for Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism in the country with the launch of the anti-militancy operation Azm-e-Istehkam.

“We support Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of its citizens in a manner that promotes the rule of law and protection of the human,” Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, said during a daily press briefing. 

He said that Washington's partnership with Islamabad on security issues, including high-level counterterrorism talks, funding, and military-to-military support, will continue for Pakistan.

“Pakistani people have suffered tremendously from terrorist attacks; no country should have to suffer such acts of terror,” he said.

Miller’s statement came on the same day when the federal cabinet approved the decision of the apex committee to begin anti-terrorism operations against militants despite objections from the opposition alliance of the PTI and JUI-F.

Apart from this, Miller also expressed concern over the increasing blasphemy cases across the world, including Pakistan, saying violence and intimidation against individuals are unacceptable and the US stands against blasphemy laws worldwide. 

"We oppose blasphemy laws everywhere in the world, including in Pakistan," said Miller.

Condemning the Swat lynching case and destroying minority graves by police in Punjab, he said that the US encouraged Pakistan to uphold the human rights and essential freedoms of all individuals.

"Both, we make that clear both publicly and privately. This includes freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of association, and the right to peaceful assembly," he said.