Several members of the U.S Congress came out in support of India in the wake of the terror strike at the Pathankot air force base, terming it yet another reason why both countries must intensify their counter-terrorism cooperation.
The India Caucus in the U.S Congress has been bipartisan and increasingly vocal in appreciating Indian concerns, particularly those related to terrorism. For instance, the recent spending bill passed by the U.S Congress requires higher standards of certification that Pakistan is acting against terror groups that target India, for it to remain eligible for U.S financial support.
Republican Ed Royce, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee tweeted: “Terrorist attack on Indian Air Force base another reason US & #India must work together to fight extremism.” “My thoughts are with victims, families, others affected by #Panthankot attacks; the US continues to stand w India in fight against terrorism,” tweeted Congressman Steny Hoyer, House Democratic Whip.
Congressman Eliot Engel, Ranking Member of House Foreign Affairs Committee expressed support to India in its fight against terrorism. Republican Congressman Pete Sessions, Chairman of House Rules Committee said in a statement:
“I condemn the terrorist attacks on India’s Pathankot Air Force base in Punjab, India, and the Indian Consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan, which have left seven Indian security personnel dead. These deplorable acts threaten to undermine peace and the United States stands ready to work with our Indian ally to combat terrorism in the region and across the world.”
The co-chairs of the Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, Ami Bera and George Holding said in a joint statement: “we offer support to the people and government of India and vow to stand together as the United States and India address the shared challenge of combating region and global terrorism.” Democrat Grace Meng from New York also condemned the attacks
