On June 5, 2025, US Congressman Brad Sherman met a Pakistani delegation led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Washington, urging decisive action against the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist group, notorious for the 2002 murder of journalist Daniel Pearl. Sherman emphasized Pakistan’s need to combat terrorism, noting Pearl’s family resides in his district. He also demanded the release of Dr Shakil Afridi, imprisoned since 2011 for aiding the CIA in locating Osama bin Laden, calling it a step toward justice for 9/11 victims. The delegation’s visit coincided with an Indian team, led by Shashi Tharoor, briefing US officials on Operation Sindoor post the Pahalgam attack.

Sherman further pressed for religious freedom, urging protection for Christians, Hindus, and Ahmadiyya Muslims in Pakistan from violence and discrimination. Bhutto’s US tour, including UN meetings, aimed to internationalize the Kashmir issue but faced criticism for Pakistan’s terrorism links, redirecting focus to internal reforms.