US Lawmakers Call for Imran Khan's Release

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Washington, D.C: American lawmakers, including officials from the Biden and Trump administrations, have called for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan amidst escalating political turmoil in Pakistan. Richard Grenell, who served as the Director of National Intelligence under the Trump administration, expressed his concerns on his official Twitter account, urging for Khan's release. Grenell, a significant figure within Donald Trump's team, has been selected to engage in discussions with Russia regarding the Ukraine issue. Sharing a report from Bloomberg about the troubling situation in Islamabad, Grenell stated, "Imran Khan should be released." Zalmay Khalilzad, a prominent official from Trump’s first administration, also voiced his concerns over reports of orders to "shoot on sight" at protesters. He described such directives as a "devastating" mistake and emphasized that this is not the appropriate way to enforce the law. Khalilzad called for an immediate reconciliation process involving Pakistan’s allies for the sake of the country’s future. In light of extensive media coverage of the situation in Pakistan over the past two days, members of the U.S. Congress have criticized the ongoing political crisis and human rights conditions. They have demanded the release of all political prisoners, including Imran Khan, and condemned the violent suppression of protests and dissent.

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib described the repression faced by PTI protesters in Pakistan and the rising political violence, stating that such efforts aim to stifle democracy and human rights. "I stand with the brave people of Pakistan who are awake and protesting for change," she said. Co-chair of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, highlighted the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and peaceful protest as essential to democracy. She expressed support for those advocating for justice and human rights in Pakistan, asserting that "freedom of expression and peaceful protest are vital for democracy, which should be upheld in the U.S., Pakistan, and around the world." Congressman Ro Khanna also expressed deep concern over recent developments, including internet shutdowns, road blockages, and the detention of political activists. He emphasized that freedom of expression and uninterrupted internet services are crucial for any nation. Congresswoman Summer Lee remarked on the bravery of the Pakistani people in their struggle for electoral reform and an independent judiciary, stating that any form of oppression against fundamental human rights is condemnable. Congressman Brad Sherman highlighted the dire human rights situation in Pakistan, including forced political affiliations, enforced disappearances, and the misuse of laws. He condemned sectarian violence in Kurram Agency, where 80 individuals have lost their lives, and stressed the importance of respecting the right to peaceful protest for Khan's supporters. Amnesty International has also expressed serious concerns regarding the Pakistani government's use of force against protesters, demanding that the government respect the rights of demonstrators and immediately revoke the "shoot on sight" orders, as such directives grant unnecessary powers to the military.