US Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Sanction Pakistan Army Chief Over Political Crackdown:

A bipartisan group in the US Congress has introduced legislation aiming to sanction Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir. The bill accuses him of involvement in politically motivated actions against opposition leaders, most notably former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Representatives Joe Wilson (Republican-South Carolina) and Jimmy Panetta (Democrat-California) co-sponsored the bill titled the "Pakistan Democracy Act." The proposed law seeks sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, including travel bans and visa restrictions.

Bill Demands Accountability for Political Persecution

If passed, the legislation requires the US government to identify individuals involved in political repression in Pakistan within 180 days. Those identified could face sanctions for alleged human rights abuses, particularly those connected to Imran Khan’s detention.

The bill directly names General Asim Munir, accusing him of knowingly persecuting political rivals and facilitating their wrongful imprisonment.

Growing Political Support in US for Khan’s Release

Representative Joe Wilson has been vocal about Imran Khan’s case, labeling him a political prisoner. He confirmed reaching out to former President Donald Trump, urging him to pressure Pakistan’s military leadership through visa bans and diplomatic channels.

Several other lawmakers, including Representatives Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, Greg Casar, Brad Sherman, and Ro Khanna, have echoed these concerns, calling for Khan’s immediate release.

Imran Khan’s Political and Legal Troubles

Imran Khan was ousted from office in 2022 through a no-confidence vote and arrested in August 2023 on corruption charges. His supporters argue that the charges are politically motivated, intended to prevent him from contesting future elections.

Despite facing criticism for his anti-American rhetoric, including allegations that his ouster was part of a U.S.-backed conspiracy, Khan’s detention has gained attention among some American lawmakers.

US Officials and Analysts Express Skepticism Over Sanctions

While members of Congress are advocating for action, U.S. State Department officials have avoided commenting on Khan’s legal case. Spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that the U.S. does not intervene in the internal politics of other countries.

Foreign policy experts, including Husain Haqqani and Michael Kugelman, have expressed doubt that Washington would impose sanctions against Pakistan solely over Khan’s detention. They note that such calls may reflect domestic political considerations rather than a broader policy shift.