The United States has expressed strong opposition to the violent protests, looting, and arson that occurred in Pakistan on May 9, 2023 following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan.

In a recent statement during his weekly media briefing, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of dealing with such incidents according to the rule of law.

"We support legitimate, free expression, including the right to protest, the right to peaceful assembly, and we oppose violent actions, we oppose vandalism, looting, arson," said Miller to a question on attacks on states’ institutions, including on May 9, 2023 in Pakistan. "Governments should deal with them consistent with the rule of law and respect for free speech."

To another question on Defence Minister Khawaja Asif advocating launching attacks against terrorist groups in Afghanistan as a part of a new military campaign, Miller also highlighted the significant suffering endured by the people of Pakistan due to terrorism.

"The Pakistani people have suffered greatly at the hands of terrorists. We have a shared interest in combating threats to regional security," he remarked, reflecting on the long-standing challenges faced by the country in combating terrorism and maintaining internal security.

Addressing broader regional concerns, Miller stated that it is in the common interest of both the United States and Pakistan to tackle threats to regional security. "Addressing threats to the region's security is in our common interest," he noted, emphasizing the need for continued cooperation between the two nations.

He further said: "We partner with a range of Pakistani civilian institutions and regularly engage the government of Pakistan to identify opportunities to build capacity and strengthen regional security, including in our annual high-level counterterrorism dialogue," the spokesman added.