The United States expressed its opposition to violent actions and protests on Monday, emphasizing that governments should respond to such events in accordance with the law.
Addressing the May 9 protests in Pakistan and their comparison to the January 6 riots in the US, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated the US stance on global protests.
“Our position is consistent worldwide: we support legitimate, free expression, including the right to protest and peaceful assembly. We oppose violent actions, vandalism, looting, and arson,” Miller stated during Monday’s press briefing.
He emphasized, “All protests should be conducted peacefully, and governments should respond to them consistent with the rule of law and respect for free speech.”
When asked about US support for strikes against the TTP in Afghanistan, Miller acknowledged the severe impact of terrorism on Pakistanis. “The Pakistani people have suffered greatly at the hands of terrorists. We have a shared interest in combating threats to regional security,” he said.
Miller added that the US consistently engages with Pakistan to enhance regional security. “We partner with various Pakistani civilian institutions and regularly engage the Government of Pakistan to identify opportunities to build capacity and strengthen regional security, including through our annual high-level counterterrorism dialogue.”
