In the aftermath of the recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, a former U.S. official sharply criticized Pakistan’s role in regional instability, stating, “You can put lipstick on a pig, but it’s still a pig.” This remark underscores the perception that Pakistan’s actions, despite any cosmetic changes, continue to support terrorism.
The United States has consistently condemned such attacks and urged Pakistan to dismantle terrorist safe havens within its borders. A 2019 statement from the White House emphasized the need for Pakistan to end support for groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad, which claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack that killed 44 Indian CRPF personnel. The U.S. called on Pakistan to “end immediately” its support for terrorist groups operating from its soil .
Further, a 2024 U.S. report criticized Pakistan for failing to prosecute key figures such as Masood Azhar and Sajid Mir, leaders of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba, respectively. The report stated that Pakistan continued to serve as a safe haven for certain regionally-focused terrorist groups .
These developments highlight ongoing concerns over Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism and its impact on regional security.
