Former Pentagon analyst Michael Rubin has triggered fresh diplomatic controversy by calling for the arrest of Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, and urging the United States to officially categorise Pakistan as a state sponsor of terrorism. Rubin strongly criticised Washington for welcoming Munir during his White House visit in June, arguing that the Pakistani military leader “deserved detention, not recognition”.
‘No Reason for US to Support Pakistan’
Speaking to news agency ANI, Rubin questioned America’s long-standing engagement with Islamabad.
He stated there is “no strategic rationale” for the US to maintain ties with Pakistan, emphasising that Washington must adopt a tougher stance.
“There is no strategic logic for the United States embracing Pakistan. It should be labelled a state sponsor of terrorism. If Asim Munir visits the US again, he should be arrested, not honoured,” he said, taking direct aim at US foreign policy.
#WATCH | Washington, DC, USA | Former Pentagon official Michael Rubin says, “…There is no strategic logic for the United States embracing Pakistan…It should be designated a state sponsor of terrorism, period. If Asim Munir comes to the United States, he should be arrested… pic.twitter.com/nukhasYwbM
— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025
‘Washington Owes India an Apology’
Rubin also argued that the United States must acknowledge its missteps in its dealings with New Delhi.
He noted that while former President Donald Trump seldom issues apologies, American interests—and the global democratic order—should take precedence over individual political egos.
He stressed the need for “quiet, behind-the-scenes diplomacy” and ultimately a more open American acknowledgement of how India has been treated in recent months.
Trade Disputes Adding Pressure
His remarks arrive amid ongoing tensions between India and the US. Earlier, the Trump administration had imposed a steep 50% tariff on Indian imports, straining bilateral trade relations.
Additionally, several high-ranking American officials have recently issued critical statements toward India, further complicating ties.
Trump’s Claim Over India–Pakistan Standoff
Relations were further strained by Donald Trump’s repeated assertion that he personally helped de-escalate the India–Pakistan confrontation following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people on April 22.
India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror camps inside Pakistan and reportedly eliminating over 100 militants. The confrontation lasted three days, ending on May 10 when Pakistan requested a ceasefire.
Trump has repeatedly claimed credit for stopping the conflict—at times suggesting he deserved a Nobel Peace Prize—an assertion Pakistan endorsed. India, however, firmly dismissed the claim, affirming that the ceasefire was achieved through direct military and diplomatic channels without external intervention.