US lawmaker Bill Huizenga said Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy, The Resistance Front, were responsible for the recent Pahalgam terror attack, noting that both organisations “were designated
by the Trump administration as foreign terrorist organisations in July of 2025.”
His comments reflect rising concern in Washington over the operational reach of LeT-linked groups and their role in cross-border violence.
Speaking at the House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee’s hearing titled “The US-India Strategic Partnership: Securing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” Huizenga also highlighted the expanding economic and strategic dimensions of ties between New Delhi and Washington.
He said India’s rapid economic growth had made it an increasingly important destination for American businesses. “India is one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world… American companies are eager to enter the Indian market on a level playing field,” he said.
Huizenga added that “a new trade deal with India under President Trump and Prime Minister Modi would further realise this goal and enhance the relationship,” underscoring economic engagement as central to strengthening bilateral links.
He stressed the broader strategic stakes as well, pointing to the combined economic and geopolitical weight of the two nations.
“I look forward to hearing from our witnesses on how the world’s largest economy and the soon-to-be third-largest economy can work together to counterbalance China and preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he said.
