The US State Department has stated that the detention of former Prime Minister Imran Khan is an internal issue for Pakistan. This remark was made during a recent press briefing where Vedant Patel, the Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the State Department, discussed various topics related to Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Patel commented on the United Nations’ arbitrary detention committee’s assertion that Khan’s detention was illegal, deferring to the UN for further clarification on their statement. He said that the U.S. has no additional assessment to provide on the matter.
Yesterday, a UN human rights working group declared that the former premier’s detention is arbitrary and violates international law, calling for his immediate release.
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The department also renewed its call for Pakistan to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms. This includes the freedom of expression, freedom of association, peaceful assembly, and freedom of religion.
