In the wake of a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the United States has intensified its diplomatic engagement with both Pakistan and India, urging restraint, regional cooperation, and a renewed commitment to dialogue.
In a recent meeting between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mr. Ishaq Dar, and U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad, Ms. Natalie Baker, both sides exchanged views on regional developments, with a particular focus on peace and security in South Asia. A spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, speaking on background, emphasized Washington’s ongoing concern over regional terrorist threats and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to peace and stability in South Asia.
“Terrorist attacks and militant groups continue to threaten strategic stability in South Asia, and an effective response to them requires communication and cooperation between India and Pakistan,” the spokesperson said.
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The United States swiftly condemned the April 22 attack in Pahalgam. President Donald Trump described the incident as “deeply disturbing” and expressed full support for India’s fight against terrorism. Vice President Vance, who was in India at the time, echoed these sentiments and called for both countries to exercise restraint while cooperating to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Further U.S. condemnations followed from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Each emphasized America’s solidarity with India and its broader regional objective: countering terrorism while maintaining dialogue to avoid escalation.
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In separate diplomatic calls, Secretary Rubio spoke with both Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Chargé d’Affaires Baker, according to the Embassy, has remained in close contact with senior Pakistani officials to “underscore the seriousness of U.S. concerns” and to promote restraint.
“These diplomatic engagements send an unmistakable message: the United States is strongly committed to countering terrorism, promoting dialogue and diplomatic efforts to address longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan, and maintaining long-term peace and stability in South Asia,” the spokesperson noted.
The situation remains fluid, and U.S. officials continue to monitor developments closely.
