Describing the release of Hafiz Saeed as a step in the wrong direction, the US on Saturday said Pakistan now has an opportunity to "demonstrate its seriousness" in the fight against terrorism by "arresting and charging" the 26/11 mastermind for his crimes.
"The US strongly condemns the release of LeT leader Hafiz Saeed from house arrest in Pakistan and calls for his immediate re-arrest and prosecution," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said.
He said Saeed's release, after Pakistan's failure to prosecute or charge him, sends a "deeply troubling message" about Pakistan's commitment to combating international terrorism and "belies Pakistani claims" that it will not provide sanctuary for terrorists on its soil.
"If Pakistan does not take action to lawfully detain Saeed and charge him for his crimes, its inaction will have repercussions for bilateral relations and for Pakistan's global reputation," Sanders said.
Deccan Herald is on WhatsApp Channels| Join now for Breaking News & Editor's Picks