The White House firmly denied reports on Sunday, June 15, that claimed Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir received an invitation to attend a military parade in Washington, DC.
A White House official told ANI, “This is false. No foreign military leaders were invited.” The statement dismissed widespread speculation about Munir’s presence at the event.
Reports Spark Political Reactions
Earlier, several media outlets claimed that the Donald Trump administration had invited Munir to the parade. The event was part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of the US Armed Forces. However, after the clarification from the White House, these reports lost credibility.
Still, the claims sparked sharp criticism. Many in India and among the Pakistani-American diaspora in the United States reacted strongly. Critics accused Munir of weakening democracy in Pakistan and cracking down on Imran Khan’s political party. Khan, the former prime minister, is currently in jail.
Indian Opposition Slams Modi Government
In India, the Congress party took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh called the report a major diplomatic failure for India.
He posted on X, “It is reported that Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir has been invited to the event organised in Washington DC on the occasion of US Army Day (14 June). This news is a big setback for India from a diplomatic and strategic point of view.”
He also questioned US intentions by recalling a controversial statement by Munir. “This is the same person who used provocative and inciting language just before the Pahalgam terror attack—the question arises what is America’s intention?” Ramesh added.
Parade Held on Trump’s Birthday
Meanwhile, the military parade went ahead on Saturday. It took place along Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C., and included tanks, soldiers, and a 21-gun salute. The event also marked former President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
Despite the rainy weather, Trump observed the parade from a special viewing stand near the White House. In a brief speech, he said, “Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did too.”
Protests Across the Country
At the same time, anti-Trump groups staged protests across the US. Civil rights organisations and labor unions led the “No Kings” demonstrations. They criticised the parade as a show of authoritarianism, especially because it coincided with Trump’s birthday.