US State Department Declines Comment on USCIRF Report Targeting India, Reaffirms Support for Trump’s Global Role

Spokesperson Tammy Bruce avoids diplomatic speculation on RAW sanctions, highlights Trump’s reputation as a global stabilizer

Washington, DC [US], April 1: US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Monday declined to comment on the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom’s (USCIRF) recent recommendation to designate India as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) and impose sanctions on Indian intelligence agency RAW.

During a press briefing, Bruce was asked about the USCIRF’s controversial call for sanctions. She firmly refused to elaborate on any diplomatic discussions, saying, “Well, I will not discuss negotiations or diplomatic considerations in that manner at all.”

She added that the department would review the matter internally, stating, “We’ll take a look at where that stands and the reference to that. But that’s not something that I’m going to be commenting on.”

The 2024 USCIRF report listed 12 countries under CPC designation, including China, Iran, North Korea, and Pakistan, citing ongoing religious freedom violations. India’s potential inclusion has sparked debate, especially due to its strategic and economic ties with the US.

Switching focus during the press conference, Bruce also addressed broader global concerns tied to President Donald Trump and his perceived role as a stabilizing global figure. When asked about Trump’s involvement in matters like Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Afghanistan, Bruce praised the former president’s influence.

“Well, I support President Trump, and I think that the majority of Americans who gave him this mandate understand that that’s what is possible,” she said. “We saw that happen in the first term. His leadership impacted cities, states, and the country in profound ways, which led the American people to elect him.”

Bruce emphasized that a financially stable and strong America leads to global peace and security, adding, “That is the kind of dynamic that the world wants and expects. President Trump embodies the nature of our original founding, sticking with values, ensuring safety, and implementing respect on the global stage.”

While no official position was taken regarding the USCIRF report, the comments reflect the US administration’s continued balancing act between domestic political support and its strategic partnerships abroad.