US Calls for Calm: Secretary of State Marco Rubio Urges India and Pakistan to De-escalate Tensions Post-Pahalgam Terror Attack

New Delhi/Islamabad – May 1, 2025: In a strong diplomatic outreach following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions and collaborate to ensure peace in South Asia. The horrific attack claimed the lives of 26 civilians, most of them tourists, sparking a new wave of regional strain.

Rubio held separate phone calls on Wednesday with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, as tensions simmered between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

US Condemns Terror Attack, Reaffirms Support Against Terrorism

During his conversation with EAM Jaishankar, Rubio conveyed condolences for the victims and described the incident as “horrific.” According to State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Rubio also reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support in India’s fight against terrorism.

“He encouraged India to work with Pakistan to de-escalate tensions and maintain peace and security in South Asia,” Bruce stated.

Hours after the conversation, Dr. Jaishankar posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with US @SecRubio yesterday. Its perpetrators, backers and planners must be brought to justice.”

India has pointed to “cross-border linkages” in connection to the Pahalgam attack, indicating suspicions of Pakistan-based involvement. The Indian government has promised swift and severe punishment for those behind the deadly strike.

Rubio Urges Pakistan’s Cooperation and Condemnation

In a parallel development, Marco Rubio also spoke with Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif. During the call, the US Secretary of State stressed the need for Islamabad to strongly condemn the April 22 terror attack.

“Rubio and Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to holding terrorists accountable for their heinous acts of violence,” the State Department said.

Rubio also called upon Pakistan to fully cooperate in investigating the attack and to restore direct diplomatic channels with India to help lower tensions.

“The Secretary urged Pakistani officials’ cooperation in investigating this unconscionable attack… and encouraged Pakistan to work with India to maintain peace and security in South Asia,” added Bruce.

A Delicate Moment in Indo-Pak Relations

The US appeal comes at a delicate juncture. The Pahalgam attack has reignited long-standing hostilities, with India demanding tangible action and accountability. While both countries have engaged in back-channel diplomacy in the past, the attack threatens to unravel any progress made in recent years.

Global Community Watches Closely

With rising concerns over instability in the region, the international community is watching closely. The United States’ intervention indicates a growing global urgency to prevent further escalation between two of the world’s most heavily armed nations.

As both India and Pakistan weigh their next steps, the spotlight remains on whether diplomacy can prevail over conflict.

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FAQs:

Q. What did the US say about the Pahalgam terror attack?
The US strongly condemned the attack, offered condolences, and reaffirmed its commitment to counterterrorism efforts with India.

Q. What did Marco Rubio urge India and Pakistan to do?
He urged both nations to work together, de-escalate tensions, re-establish communication, and ensure peace in South Asia.

Q. What is India’s stance after the attack?
India has vowed to bring the perpetrators and their backers to justice, citing cross-border involvement.