Indian-American members of the U.S. Congress have voiced their approval of India’s recent military action targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, while also stressing the need for restraint to avoid escalating regional tensions.
The strikes, known as Operation Sindoor, were launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. India struck nine suspected terrorist locations, prompting both support and concern from international leaders.
Congressman Shri Thanedar, representing Michigan, expressed unwavering support for India’s actions via a post on social media platform X. “Terrorism must never go unanswered. India has every right to protect its citizens, and I stand with our ally as it dismantles terror networks,” he wrote. He also called for deeper U.S.-India cooperation to tackle terrorism and uphold shared democratic values.
India’s Ministry of Defence clarified that Operation Sindoor was a carefully calibrated mission, avoiding any Pakistani military targets and based solely on confirmed intelligence. The ministry reiterated the operation’s goal was to neutralize threats without further inflaming tensions.
Congressman Ro Khanna, also of Indian descent, echoed support while advocating for a peaceful resolution. Speaking to CNN, Khanna acknowledged the seriousness of the Pahalgam tragedy and India’s limited military response, stating, “India’s actions eliminated some key terrorist elements.”
However, he cautioned against continued hostilities. “The priority now must be de-escalation. Both countries should refrain from further military responses,” he said. Khanna also sharply criticised Pakistan’s Army Chief Aseem Munir, labelling him a dictator responsible for suppressing political opposition and manipulating elections. He called on the United States to use its financial influence—especially through IMF channels—to press Pakistan toward democratic reform, including the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Khanna cautioned the Indian leadership against pursuing harsh retaliatory actions, particularly urging them not to halt water supplies to Pakistan, as such a step would breach the Shimla Agreement.
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the operation’s precision and determination, posting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” on X. In contrast, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the strikes as unwarranted aggression and vowed a firm response.
