United States Senator Mark R. Warner wrote to the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, expressing concern over ongoing alleged human rights violations in Pakistan. In his letter, Senator Warner urged Rubio to take diplomatic steps and engage with the government of Pakistan over abuses such as targeting political figures, journalists, and activists, including widespread arrests and instances of transnational repression.

Warner said Pakistan’s 2024 elections, delayed from 2023, were marked by violence and claims of interference and irregularities. He also highlighted the post-election crackdowns targeted at supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

The US Senator also reiterated serious concerns over ongoing attempts to intimidate or otherwise threaten Pakistani individuals living abroad, including constituents in Virginia, as well as their family members or personal connections in Pakistan.