US lawmaker highlights Lashkar-e-Taiba’s role in Pahalgam terror attack, calls India ties a ‘defining relationship’

US Congressman Bill Huizenga has linked the recent Pahalgam terror attack to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its proxy, the Resistance Front (TRF), noting that both organizations “were designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the Trump administration in July 2025.”

His comments came during a House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee hearing on ‘US India Strategic Partnership: Securing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ on Wednesday, December 9.

Huizenga said Washington and New Delhi share a commitment to counter terrorism, calling the designation of LeT and the TRF a reflection of joint efforts “to fight terrorism wherever it occurs.”

On April 22, three terrorists killed 26 people, mostly tourists, in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Concern over Russia, China and regional security

In his opening remarks, Huizenga said the US-India partnership has evolved into “a defining relationship of the 21st century”, underscoring the need for cooperation to secure a free and open Indo-Pacific.

He expressed concern over India’s recent activities with Russia and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), but acknowledged New Delhi’s steps to reduce dependence on Russian energy.

He warned that authoritarian powers like China and Russia are reshaping the borders by force. Referring to tensions along the India-China border, he said the Chinese military has killed Indian soldiers since 2020, prompting India to respond “decisively” to military pressure.

Economic ties and trade prospects

Huizenga also emphasized the economic stakes of the partnership. He said India’s rapid economic expansion has made it an important destination for American companies.

According to News 18, he said, “India is one of the fastest growing major economies in the world… American companies are eager to enter the Indian market on an equal footing.”

A potential trade agreement “under President Trump and Prime Minister Modi” could help broaden economic cooperation and support innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, he said.

Strengthening cooperation to counter China

Looking ahead, Huizenga stressed the need for deeper cooperation between “the world’s largest economy and what will soon be the third largest economy,” telling the hearing how the two countries can jointly “balance China and preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific.”