ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Amid rising tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors Pakistan and India, the United States has called for calm and announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will soon engage directly with his counterparts in both countries.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed Washington’s active diplomatic outreach, stressing the importance of de-escalation.
“We are reaching out to both parties and telling, of course, them to not escalate the situation,” Bruce told reporters. “We are monitoring the escalating tension between Pakistan and India very closely and we are in touch with the governments of both countries at multiple levels.”
Diplomatic Efforts Underway
Bruce also noted that Secretary Rubio is encouraging other foreign ministers to engage with both Islamabad and New Delhi in a bid to reduce the risk of further conflict. The U.S. has emphasized dialogue as the only responsible course forward in light of recent developments.
Background: Kashmir Attack Fuels Crisis
The latest strain in Pakistan-India relations follows a deadly assault in Indian-administered Kashmir last week, which left 26 civilians dead. New Delhi has accused Pakistan of involvement, alleging “cross-border” links to the attackers.
Islamabad has strongly rejected the allegations and has offered full cooperation in an impartial, international investigation to determine the facts surrounding the incident.
Growing Diplomatic Fallout
In response to the Kashmir attack, India has suspended the longstanding Indus Waters Treaty, a vital water-sharing agreement between the two countries, drawing condemnation from Pakistan. Both sides have also shut key border crossings and further reduced diplomatic engagement.
The United States’ intervention comes as regional and global observers express concern about the potential for military escalation. As Secretary Rubio prepares for direct discussions with both nations, diplomatic efforts appear to be intensifying to avert a deeper crisis.
