Washington, May 1: Amidst the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, the United States has called for de-escalation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in separate conversations with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday, conveying the US’s commitment to counter-terrorism cooperation with India and urging Pakistan to assist in the investigation of the “unconscionable” attack in Kashmir.
The top US diplomat implored the leaders of both nuclear-armed neighbors to work towards reducing the heightened tensions. During his call with Jaishankar, Rubio expressed solidarity with India and conveyed his condolences for the lives lost in the Pahalgam attack. According to US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Rubio reaffirmed the US’s commitment to joint efforts against terrorism while also advising caution as India accuses Pakistan of supporting the attack and considers retaliation. Rubio encouraged India to collaborate with Pakistan to de-escalate the situation and maintain peace and security in South Asia. Following the conversation, Jaishankar posted on X, emphasizing that the “perpetrators, backers and planners” of the attack “must be brought to justice.”
In his discussion with Prime Minister Sharif, Rubio urged Pakistan to condemn the April 22 attack in Kashmir and cooperate in the ensuing investigation. Ms. Bruce stated that the US Secretary of State “urged Pakistani officials’ cooperation in investigating this unconscionable attack.” Rubio also encouraged the Pakistani Prime Minister to work with India to de-escalate tensions, re-establish direct communication channels, and uphold peace and security in the region. “Both leaders reaffirmed their continued commitment to holding terrorists accountable for their heinous acts of violence,” Ms. Bruce added.
India has directly blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, citing the claim of responsibility by The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be a proxy for the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Pakistan has denied any involvement and has called for a neutral investigation into the incident.
While publicly expressing support for India, with condemnations from President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, the US has refrained from directly criticizing Pakistan. Washington’s strategic interests involve both nations, with India being an increasingly vital partner in countering China’s influence, while Pakistan remains an ally despite a shift in importance after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India has implemented a series of strong measures, including downgrading diplomatic ties with Pakistan, suspending the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 for the first time, and revoking all visas issued to Pakistani nationals. The Wagah-Attari border has also been closed. Pakistan has retaliated by closing its airspace to Indian airlines and engaging in cross-border firing. Pakistan’s defense minister has reportedly indicated that a military incursion by India is considered imminent, further escalating the already tense situation in the region.
Comments are closed.