US want Pakistan to step up fight against terrorism: White House

Washington D.C. [United States], January 3 (ANI): Hours after U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley confirmed that that the U.S. would be cutting off aid to Pakistan, the White House on Tuesday said they just wanted Pakistan to do more in the fight against terrorism.

"We know that Pakistan can do more to fight terrorism, and we want them to step up and do that," White House Spokesperson Sarah Sanders said during White House press briefing.

"First, in terms of Pakistan, as I said, our goal is that we know that they can do more to stop terrorism, and we want them to do that. That seems pretty simple. In terms of specific actions, I think you will see some more details come out on that in the next 24 to 48 hours, and we will be sure to keep you guys updated on that front," she added.

Earlier, Haley said President Donald Trump was prepared to end all funding for Pakistan if it did not stop providing safe haven to terrorist groups.

She also confirmed that the U.S. was withholding $255 million in aid to Pakistan for harboring the terrorists that attack U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

"We expect far more cooperation from Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. The president is willing to go to great lengths to stop all funding from Pakistan as they continue to harbor and support terrorism," she added.

Haley's remarks came a day after Trump castigated Pakistan for providing safe havens to terrorists.

"The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!" Trump posted on the micro-blogging site on Monday.

Outraged over Trump's tweet, Pakistan summoned the United States ambassador David Hale to lodge its protest against the tweet. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI