Following a devastating terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in multiple civilian casualties, the US has issued a stern call for both India and Pakistan to avoid “dangerous rhetoric and war talk” and instead focus on restoring communication and investigating the attack’s origins.
While India has pointed fingers at the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed, Pakistan has dismissed the allegations, labeling them politically motivated and calling for UN involvement in a neutral investigation.
US officials have held urgent talks with both countries and reaffirmed their commitment to counterterrorism cooperation. However, they’ve also made it clear that any unilateral military action by either country could destabilize the region.
Washington is reportedly working with European and Middle Eastern allies to create diplomatic pressure for restraint and de-escalation. As calls for peace grow louder, the situation remains fragile, with one misstep potentially triggering a serious conflict.
After the April 22 bombing that killed 26 civilians in Indian-administered Kashmir, tensions have escalated rapidly. India has threatened “strong consequences” while Pakistan has mobilized its defense forces, claiming it is prepared for any offensive move.
Amid this, Washington is calling for calm, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio offering to facilitate confidence-building measures between the two sides. Rubio emphasized that peace in South Asia aligns with US strategic interests and that conflict between two nuclear nations must be prevented at all costs.
Diplomatic observers say this may be the most dangerous standoff since the 2019 Pulwama-Balakot episode and that external mediation may be the only path to lasting peace.