Tulsi Gabbard, the United States Director of National Intelligence, addressed the issue of Pakistan-sponsored attacks against India, emphasizing the threat of “Islamist terrorism.” She described it as a challenge that not only affects India and the United States but also numerous countries in the Middle East.
In a meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Gabbard spoke about the collaboration between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump to combat this global threat. When asked about the Trump administration’s stance on the repeated terror attacks on India from Pakistan, Gabbard pointed to the persistence of Islamist terrorism, stating, “President Trump, throughout his first term and continuing now, has been very clear about his commitment to defeating the threat of Islamist terrorism, which has unfortunately plagued us and continues to pose a direct threat to the American people. We can see its impact on people in India, Bangladesh, Syria, Israel, and other countries in the Middle East. Prime Minister Modi takes this threat seriously, and our leaders are working together to identify and defeat it.”
In an interview with ANI Gabbard also reflected on her personal spiritual journey and how her Hindu faith has empowered her to break barriers. She shared, “My personal spiritual practice and my relationship with God are at the center of my life. I strive every day to live a life that is pleasing to God and to serve all of God’s children. Whether in war zones or facing present-day challenges, I turn to the teachings of Krishna to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita. These teachings provide me with strength, peace, and comfort in both good and difficult times.”
During her meeting with India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, India raised concerns about anti-India activities by the Khalistani organization Sikh For Justice (SFJ) operating in the United States. India urged the US government to take strong action against the group. Gabbard, in response, expressed her appreciation for being in India, sharing her love for Indian food and culture.
Gabbard, who is on a multi-nation visit, arrived in India for a three-day trip, marking her first visit to the country since becoming the US Director of National Intelligence. She is scheduled to speak at the Raisina Dialogue on March 18, which will conclude the Asia leg of her visit.
