US criticized over response to Indonesia attacks

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. expressed concern Thursday over increased attacks on religious minorities in Indonesia, but human rights groups accused Washington of downplaying the problem as it looks to forge stronger relations with Jakarta.

Muslim-majority Indonesia has emerged as Southeast Asia’s most robust democracy since the fall of longtime dictator Suharto 15 years ago this week. But recent years have seen increased reports of violence and discrimination against Christians, minority Shiite Muslims and the Ahmadiyah Islamic sect.