US's messages on Delhi, Islamabad blasts spark 'double standards' debate
What's the story
The United States has extended its condolences to both India and Pakistan after recent bomb blasts in the two countries. However, the tone and content of the messages have drawn criticism on social media platforms. After a car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort on Monday, which killed 13 people, the US embassy in India tweeted, "Our hearts are with those affected by the terrible explosion in New Delhi."
Contrast in messaging
Stronger message for Pakistan
The next day, a suicide bombing outside Islamabad's judicial complex killed 12 people and injured several others. The US embassy in Pakistan responded with a stronger message, saying, "The United States stands in solidarity with Pakistan in the struggle against terrorism." This message included explicit condemnation of terrorism and support for Pakistan's efforts to maintain peace and stability.
Social media backlash
Netizens criticize US for 'selective' response
The difference in the tone and urgency of the two messages has drawn criticism from netizens and geopolitical observers. A user on X noted, "It took the US embassy in India nearly a day to tweet condolences for the terror attack here, but the US embassy in Pakistan was quicker for the Pakistani attack. It seems terror in India is viewed through a different prism than elsewhere."
Other reactions
People weigh in on social media
Another user, Sheffali Singh, wrote, "It's disappointing to see the US embassy address this tragedy [blast in Delhi] without explicitly calling it what it was: a terrorist attack. Immediate and strong condemnation is essential." Yet another person wrote, "Now it is getting clear...For US embassy in India the blast in Delhi is just an explosion, but whereas for US embassy in Pakistan the blast in Islamabad is an act of terror...Now we can see who the real partners are."
Geopolitical implications
Backlash highlights strains in India-US ties
Despite the criticism, it's worth noting that the initial condolence message from the US State Department was in line with India's position on the incident. India had not officially classified the Red Fort explosion as a terrorist attack at that point. There is no official confirmation yet on what caused the blast, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said the "conspirators" will not be spared.