As tensions rise between India and Pakistan over the recent Kashmir incident, the United States is stepping in to encourage both sides to avoid further conflict. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to speak directly with the foreign ministers of both countries, urging calm and pushing for open diplomatic dialogue.
“We’re telling both parties not to escalate,” said U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce during a press briefing on Wednesday.
Bruce confirmed that Secretary Rubio is preparing to hold conversations with the top diplomats of India and Pakistan to stress the need for restraint. She added that Rubio believes diplomacy is the only way forward and has also asked other world leaders to support peace efforts in the region.
This U.S. initiative comes in response to the April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir’s Pahalgam area, which left 26 people dead, including Indian navy personnel and civilians. India has accused Pakistan of being linked to the assault, but Islamabad has strongly denied any involvement and called for an independent international investigation.
Although the U.S. has not commented directly on the allegations, Bruce emphasized that Washington is “closely monitoring the situation” and staying in active contact with both governments.
In the briefing, Bruce was asked about broader U.S.-Pakistan relations, including cooperation in past counterterrorism efforts. While she declined to go into details, she acknowledged Pakistan’s role in the arrest of a Daesh (ISIS) suspect and said the U.S. appreciated their support.
She also sidestepped questions about Pakistan’s internal political situation, saying the immediate diplomatic focus is on reducing regional tensions and encouraging dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad.
