US opposes ‘violent actions, looting, arson’ during May 9 riots

United States’ State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Monday that the US supported the right of the public to protest, adding that it opposes violent actions, looting, and arson, while addressing a news briefing in Washington, DC.

“We support legitimate, free expression, including the right to protest, the right to peaceful assembly, and we oppose violent actions, we oppose vandalism, looting, arson,” the spokesperson added.

Miller replied to a journalist’s question on May 9 riots, saying, “Governments should deal consistently with the rule of law and free speech.”

On May 9, 2023, riots were triggered across the country when former Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested from the premises of Islamabad High Court (IHC).

Following the attacks on military and civilian installations, scores of PTI workers and leaders were put behind bars for their involvement in thr violence.