Islamabad / Washington D.C. — Pakistan’s top political leadership has strongly condemned the shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C., expressing relief that U.S. President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other attendees remained safe following the attack.
The incident, which unfolded at the Washington Hilton hotel during a high-profile political and media gathering, triggered swift international reactions after an armed suspect opened fire on a Secret Service agent stationed at a security checkpoint.
President Zardari Calls Incident ‘Heinous Act of Terrorism’
President Asif Ali Zardari, in a statement reported by Radio Pakistan, described the attack as a “heinous act of terrorism” and strongly condemned the violence.
He expressed relief that President Trump and the First Lady were unharmed and extended solidarity with the people of the United States in the aftermath of the incident.
PM Shehbaz Expresses Shock and Concern
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also reacted to the shooting, calling it “deeply disturbing” in a post shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
He said he was relieved to learn that President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and all other attendees were safe, adding that his thoughts and prayers were with the U.S. President and wishing him continued safety and well-being.
Ishaq Dar Condemns ‘Cowardly Shooting’
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar termed the attack a “cowardly shooting incident,” strongly condemning all forms of violence.
“We are relieved that President Trump, Vice President Vance and the First Lady are safe. We strongly condemn all forms of violence, which is an enemy of diplomacy and intolerable in any civilized society,” he wrote on X, extending best wishes to the President of the United States and the American people.
Acting President Gilani Also Voices Concern
Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani also condemned the incident, expressing relief that no lives were lost and all attendees remained safe.
He conveyed prayers and best wishes for the U.S. leadership and emphasized solidarity with the people of the United States during the crisis.
Attack at Washington Hilton Sparks Security Alarm
The shooting occurred when an armed suspect allegedly fired at a Secret Service agent at a checkpoint inside the Washington Hilton, where the annual correspondents’ dinner was being held.
Security personnel immediately responded, tackling and arresting the suspect at the scene. Officials confirmed that the agent was injured but later discharged from the hospital.
Former President Donald Trump later praised the Secret Service response, stating the protective vest “did the job,” and described the attacker as a “sick person.”
Authorities have confirmed that the suspect is in custody, and investigations are ongoing. All federal officials attending the event were reported safe.
The incident has once again raised serious questions about security at high-profile political gatherings in the United States.
