US blocks Pakistan ambassador Masood Khan's appointment over possible terror links: Report

WASHINGTON: The United States (US) on Monday blocked the appointment of next Pakistan ambassador, Masood Khan , over a possible terror link, reported India Today . The development comes after US Congressman Scott Perry wrote a letter to President
Joe Biden
requesting him to reject Khan's appointment as the next ambassador from Pakistan.

Perry also mentioned that Khan was known to have praised Burhan Wani, who was neutralised by Indian security forces in Kashmir.

"I write with grave concern about the appointment of Masood Khan as Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States. Imran Khan's nomination of a bona fide terrorist sympathizer 'working to undermine our interests in the region - as well as the security of our Indian allies - can only be described as a breathtaking lack of judgment at best, and a demonstration of Islamabad's unmitigated contempt for the United States at worst," Perry wrote in his letter to Biden.

"While I am encouraged that the State Department has reportedly placed a pause on approving Masood Khan as the new Ambassador from Pakistan, a pause is not enough. I urge you to reject any diplomatic credentials presented to you by Masood Khan and reject any effort by the Government of Pakistan to install this jihadist as Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States," he added.

"He has encouraged young men to emulate jihadists like Burhan Wani, a former commander of Hizbul Mujahideen who dedicated his life to a holy war against India," Perry said.

(With inputs from agencies)