Following India's "Operation Sindoor" which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, US Congressman Ro Khanna has issued a stern warning to Pakistan against any retaliatory actions. Khanna emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation amidst rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Khanna's statement comes in the wake of escalating tensions after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the death of 26 civilians. India responded with Operation Sindoor, conducting strikes on what it claimed were terrorist camps within Pakistani territory. Pakistan has condemned the strikes, calling them an "act of war" and vowing a firm response.

In an interview with CNN on May 7, 2025, Khanna stated, "I would like to first make it clear to Asim Munir that there should be no retaliation on either side. This should be the end of it". He also criticized Pakistan's Army Chief of Staff, Asim Munir, referring to him as a dictator who has suppressed political dissent. Khanna asserted that Munir's actions, including the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, have silenced any "honest voice" within Pakistan. He urged for fair elections in Pakistan after de-escalation and stated that Munir should release Imran Khan.

Khanna also highlighted the leverage the United States holds over Pakistan, particularly through IMF loans. "We have a lot of leverage with Pakistan. We give IMF loans to Pakistan. They're dependent upon that," he noted. He suggested the US should use this influence to push Pakistan towards democratic reforms.

However, Khanna also urged restraint on the Indian side, cautioning Prime Minister Modi against cutting off water supplies to Pakistan, which he said would violate the Indus Waters Treaty and deprive the population of water. "We should also make it clear to Prime Minister Modi, in my view, that he should not be cutting off the water. That was part of the Shimla Accords. You can't deprive a population of water," he said.

Operation Sindoor has triggered varied reactions. India maintains the strikes were focused and non-escalatory, targeting terrorist infrastructure without targeting Pakistani military sites. Pakistan, however, claims the strikes hit civilian areas and mosques. There are conflicting reports regarding casualties, with Pakistan reporting the death of at least 26 civilians.

Several countries and international bodies, including the United Arab Emirates, have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and de-escalate tensions. The US, through National Security Advisor Marco Rubio, has also encouraged both countries to maintain open communication channels.