The father of US Army Capt. Humayun Khan who was martyred in the Iraq war said on Monday that the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump lacked the empathy to be a leader and chided him for throwing the first salvo in their exchange.
Khizr and Ghazala Khan have been caught up in a growing dispute with Trump after the outspoken billionaire responded simultaneously on Twitter to the Khan’s morning television appearances, claiming he was being “viciously” attacked.
Asked on CNN what message he could give Trump, Khizr Khan said he wanted to maintain his family’s dignity and convey to Trump “that a good leader has one trait ... empathy.”
It is basic character, realising, feeling the pains, the difficulties of the people that you wish to lead...And that is missing
The Conversation Turns Ugly
The issue has dominated the election campaign in recent days after Khan spoke at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday night, with his wife standing at his side.
Mr Khan’s son was killed by a bomb in Iraq in 2004, and the father spoke emotionally of the sacrifice his son had made for the country as an American Muslim, specifically criticizing Trump’s proposal to ban Muslims from entering the country.
In response to the speech, Trump had said that Ghazala Khan might not have been “allowed” to speak, implying her silence reflected restrictions placed on women by some traditional Muslims.
Ghazala Khan has responded by writing an opinion piece in the Washington Post on Sunday saying that she had remained silent during her husband’s remarks to cope with making her grief public during the convention.
They have also in numerous television appearances over the weekend said Trump is ignorant about Islam and about their family’s sacrifice.
In response, Trump has tried shifting the focus from the Khans.
Politicians Attack Trump
Decorated war veteran and US Senator John McCain denounced Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump on Monday for his attack on the Khans.
While our Party has bestowed upon him the nomination, it is not accompanied by unfettered license to defame those who are the best among us.John McCain
Earlier, on Sunday, Democratic rival Hillary Clinton said Trump had scapegoated the parents, while leading Republicans including House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell also issued statements in support of the family.
(With agency inputs)
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