US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Thursday said that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for restraint amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
During a press briefing, Bruce confirmed that Rubio spoke with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, urging both sides to de-escalate immediately.
“This morning, Secretary Marco Rubio spoke with Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif and EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar. In both calls, the Secretary emphasized the need for immediate de-escalation and called for an end to the violence. He expressed US support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged continued efforts to improve communications,” she said.
Rubio’s call with Jaishankar followed reports of Pakistan opening fire along the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) border, according to the US State Department.
In a separate statement, the department added: “The Secretary reiterated his condolences for the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism.”
In response, Jaishankar appreciated the US commitment and emphasized India’s firm stance.
“Spoke with US @SecRubio this evening. Deeply appreciate US commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism,” Jaishankar posted on X.
“Underlined India’s targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism. Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation,” he added.
Tensions have continued to rise on the India-Pakistan border after Pakistan fired eight missiles targeting Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia. All missiles were intercepted and neutralized by Indian air defence systems, defence sources cited by ANI said.
The nature of the attack reportedly resembled Hamas-style tactics seen in Israel, where low-cost rockets are launched en masse to overwhelm defences.
Explosions were also heard in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, as Indian forces intercepted Pakistani drones in the area.
ANI
