Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: Amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, the United States has urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate the situation and cooperate on counter-terrorism efforts. Secretary of State Marco Rubioreached out to Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday, calling for peace and justice.
Rubio Reaches Out To Both Nations
During his phone conversation with Jaishankar, Rubio expressed strong solidarity with India and mourned the loss of innocent lives. He reiterated Washington’s full support in fighting terrorism but also advised New Delhi to avoid hasty retaliation amid growing accusations against Pakistan.
Speaking to Prime Minister Sharif, Rubio asked Pakistan to formally condemn the April 22 attack and extend full cooperation in the investigation. The US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that Rubio urged both nations to restore direct communication channels and uphold regional stability.
India Demands Accountability
Jaishankar later posted on X: “Perpetrators, backers and planners of the attack must be brought to justice.” India has firmly blamed Pakistan for backing the Resistance Front (TRF)—a proxy of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba—which claimed responsibility.
Pakistan Denies Involvement
Islamabad has rejected the allegations and called for a neutral, international investigation. While the US has publicly shown support for India, it has not directly criticised Pakistan, maintaining a cautious diplomatic stance.
Strategic Implications
This comes as India is seen as a vital ally to the US in its Indo-Pacific strategy, especially in countering China. Pakistan, although a long-time partner, has seen its strategic importance diminish after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
India’s Diplomatic Countermoves
Following the Pahalgam tragedy, India suspended the Indus Water Treaty, revoked all Pakistani visas, and closed the Attari-Wagah border. It has also restricted airspace to Pakistani flights. Meanwhile, Pakistan has responded by closing its own airspace and engaging in ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC).
A Tense Crossroads
As both nations engage in retaliatory measures, the US has signalled its intent to act as a stabilising force, urging both countries to avoid further escalation and collaborate in the interest of South Asian peace.
