ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The United States has acknowledged its diplomatic efforts in helping defuse escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, with a senior State Department official crediting US involvement as instrumental in achieving and maintaining the current ceasefire between the two South Asian rivals.
US Diplomacy Credited for Averting Conflict
Speaking at a press briefing in Washington on Thursday, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce revealed that Washington’s engagement helped prevent what could have been a full-scale conflict between the neighboring nuclear-armed states.
“Pakistan and India were very close to a full-scale war, and the US played a role in securing the ceasefire between them, which is still holding,” Bruce stated. “The good news is that, unlike other regions, a commitment to a ceasefire has been made.”
Opportunity to Address Core Issues
Bruce emphasized that the ceasefire presents a valuable opportunity to address long-standing and unresolved issues between Islamabad and New Delhi. She underscored the importance of moving toward a lasting resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
“This is a moment to focus on resolving the deep-rooted differences that have long contributed to instability in the region,” she added.
Press Briefing Highlights Broader Regional Concerns
During the briefing, Bruce also addressed broader regional developments, including tensions in the Middle East. She condemned the recent killing of Israeli diplomatic staff in Washington and reiterated the US stance on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stressing the need for unhindered aid access to victims.
On the topic of Iran, Bruce expressed hope for progress in negotiations related to Tehran’s nuclear program, signaling Washington’s continued commitment to diplomacy.
Disruption During Briefing
The session briefly turned contentious when an Indian journalist interrupted proceedings, prompting Bruce to firmly admonish the disruption, maintaining the decorum of the briefing.
