Laura Loomer, a far-right political activist from the United States and a known supporter of US President Donald Trump, sparked controversy during the India Today Conclave 2026 by making strong remarks against Pakistan and its alleged role in global terrorism.
Speaking at the event in New Delhi, Loomer claimed that Pakistan’s “biggest export to the world is Islamic terrorism” and argued that the United States should avoid strengthening ties with the Pakistani government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Her comments were made during a discussion on global security, geopolitics and the role of international alliances in combating terrorism.
Strong criticism of Pakistan
During her speech, Loomer accused Pakistan of allowing extremist networks to operate within its territory and alleged that several terrorist incidents around the world could be traced back to groups linked to the country.
“Pakistan’s biggest export to the world is Islamic terrorism, and I don’t believe the US should be cosying up to the Pakistani government at all,” she said during the discussion.
She further claimed that Pakistan functions as a state that openly promotes jihadist ideology and Sharia-based governance.
According to Loomer, many extremist groups responsible for international terror attacks have connections to networks operating from Pakistan.
Her comments reflected a long-standing debate within international political circles regarding Pakistan’s alleged links to militant organisations.
Reference to alleged assassination plot
While elaborating on her claims, Loomer referred to the recent conviction of a Pakistani national, Asif Merchant, in connection with a plot to assassinate former US President Donald Trump and other American political leaders.
Merchant was accused of attempting to recruit individuals in the United States to target Trump on behalf of Iran.
The alleged plot was reportedly linked to tensions following the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in 2020 during Trump’s presidency.
Citing this case, Loomer argued that it demonstrated the continuing influence of extremist networks connected to Pakistan.
She stated that incidents like this reinforced her belief that a significant portion of global terrorism could be traced back to networks operating from the region.
US–Pakistan relations under scrutiny
Loomer’s remarks come at a time when diplomatic relations between the United States and Pakistan have undergone noticeable changes.
In recent months, Pakistan has sought to strengthen its engagement with the United States through economic and strategic cooperation.
Among the developments cited by analysts are agreements related to cryptocurrency initiatives and a reported deal worth approximately 500 million dollars involving critical minerals and rare earth resources.
Pakistan has also taken steps to highlight its diplomatic engagement with Washington, including praising Trump’s role in international conflicts and suggesting his name for the Nobel Peace Prize.
In June 2025, Trump hosted Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir for a private lunch at the White House. The meeting was notable because it took place without the presence of Pakistan’s civilian leadership, marking a rare diplomatic engagement of that nature.
Loomer calls for stronger alliances
During the conclave, Loomer emphasised that the United States should prioritise strengthening partnerships with countries such as India and Israel.
She described the relationship between these nations as one of the strongest strategic alliances in the world.
According to her, cooperation among the three countries would be crucial in addressing what she described as the growing threat of global terrorism.
“Without the leadership of Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, the world would be more susceptible to Islamic militants,” she said.
Controversial remarks on religion and politics
Loomer also addressed issues related to religion and politics in the United States, reiterating views that have previously attracted criticism.
She stated that she was not supportive of Muslims holding public office in the US, claiming that some politicians place religious identity at the centre of their political positions.
During her remarks, she mentioned American political figures such as Ilhan Omar, Zohran Mamdani and Rashida Tlaib while discussing her views on religion in public life.
These comments have often drawn criticism from civil rights groups and political analysts who argue that such statements raise concerns about religious freedom and inclusivity.
Reference to terror attacks in India
While discussing global terrorism, Loomer also referred to several major attacks in India.
She cited incidents such as the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, the Pulwama attack in 2019 and the Pahalgam attack in 2025 as examples of the challenges faced by India in dealing with terrorism.
According to her, these incidents illustrate the scale and persistence of extremist violence in the region.
Her remarks were made in the context of advocating stronger cooperation between the US and India in counterterrorism efforts.
Conclusion
Laura Loomer’s comments at the India Today Conclave have once again highlighted the sharp political debates surrounding terrorism, geopolitics and international alliances.
While her remarks drew attention for their strong criticism of Pakistan and controversial views on religion and politics, they also reflected broader global discussions about security cooperation and diplomatic relations in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.