Following the deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, tensions between India and Pakistan have continued to escalate. In response, the United States has urged both nuclear-armed nations to exercise restraint.
According to Indian media outlet NDTV, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held separate phone calls on Wednesday with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss the situation.
In the conversations, Rubio emphasized the importance of India and Pakistan working together to de-escalate tensions arising from the attack. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to support India in its fight against terrorism and simultaneously called for Pakistan's cooperation in the investigation.
U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that the Secretary advised India to act with caution and avoid retaliatory measures against Pakistan. Rubio expressed condolences for the loss of lives in the Pahalgam attack and reiterated Washington's solidarity with India in combating terrorism.
During his call with Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar, Rubio urged India to work collaboratively with Pakistan to reduce regional tensions and maintain peace and security in South Asia.
In the call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Rubio asked Pakistan to condemn the attack and fully cooperate in the investigation. Spokesperson Bruce said that the Secretary urged Pakistani authorities to assist in probing the unjustified assault.
The Pahalgam attack claimed 26 lives, and in its aftermath, bilateral relations between India and Pakistan have deteriorated sharply. The United States has stepped in to encourage both sides to prevent further escalation and work toward regional stability.
