ISLAMABAD: Pakistan strongly condemns the shooting incident in Washington, DC, reportedly involving an Afghan National.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release that our thoughts and prayers are with the departed soldier, and wish the injured a swift and complete recovery. We also extend heartfelt sympathies to the families affected as well as to the Government and people of the United States.
This targeted attack was undoubtedly an act of terrorism and a heinous assault on United States soil. For the past two decades, Pakistan has endured countless similar terrorist incidents, with clear linkages to Afghanistan. This incident signifies the challenges posed by transnational terrorism and underscores the need for enhanced global cooperation to confront this menace.
The incident heralds a troubling resurgence of terrorism on a global scale. The international community must take note and reinvigorate collective efforts in counter-terrorism. Pakistan remains committed to working with the United States and the wider international community to address the shared challenge of terrorism.
It is pertinent to mention here that two National Guardsmen were shot just blocks away from the White House in Washington DC, authorities and officials confirmed.
International media outlets including CBS News have identified the suspect as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, according to multiple law enforcement sources. Officials say Lakanwal is an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021.
According to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the incident took place in downtown Washington DC, a few streets from the presidential complex.
DC Metropolitan Police said the scene is now secure and that one suspect has been taken into custody who is an Afghan national. They urged the public to avoid the area while investigations continue. While there is not official statement on the motive behind the incident, social media users are speculating multiple possible scenarios associated with the shooting today.
Emergency response officials said three victims were transported to hospital, though the identity and condition of the third victim remain unclear. The circumstances and motive behind the shooting have not yet been confirmed.
The White House said it is “aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation”, adding that US President Donald Trump has been briefed on the developments, according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
President Trump posted on social media platform ‘Truth Social’, calling the perpetrator ‘animal’. He further states that “The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen, with both being critically wounded, and now in two separate hospitals, is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price.”
Read more: Suspect Involved in White House Shooting Identified as Afghan National Rahmanullah Lakanwal
