Rick Scott Calls Pakistan a ‘Sanctuary’ for Osama, Demands Accountability

Senator Rick Scott used his X account to issue a stern warning to Pakistan after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly lauded Iran’s deceased supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Scott reminded the world that Pakistan historically provided refuge to al‑Qaida’s top commander, Osama bin Laden, for many years.

“Let the world never forget Pakistan’s real identity,” the senator wrote, adding that “we are watching you closely.” He also accused Pakistan of past involvement in the killing of Christians under the pretext of blasphemy, further straining diplomatic ties.

The senator’s remarks followed a widely shared video in which Sharif described Khamenei as a “great scholar and leader” and affirmed that Pakistan stands firmly with Iran, describing the two nations as “brothers whose hearts beat together.” The US reaction underscores growing apprehension in Washington about Islamabad’s role in regional stability and its capacity to serve as an impartial mediator.