 "US backs India's stance, reiterates concern of Pakistan's support for terrorism")
As the tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, the US Department of State is aligning with India’s stance that Pakistan supports terrorism. On Thursday, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce gave an update on the department’s secretary Marco Rubio’s phone call with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
When asked by a reporter how the department reacts to India’s assertion that Pakistan supports and fosters terrorism, Bruce admitted that America believes the same thing. “Well, obviously that’s the call we’ve been making for decades, and clearly what happened in Kashmir was awful,” Bruce said in response during the Thursday press briefing.
The State Department spokesperson was referring to the Pahalgam attack that occurred on April 22. Terrorists with links to Pakistani terror groups infiltrated a tourist destination in Pahalgam, killing 26 people and sending shockwaves across India. A diplomatic row ensued between the two nations soon after, which ultimately led to military escalation.
US calls for de-escalation
During calls with Jaishankar and Sharif, Rubio urged for the de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan. “Secretary Marco Rubio spoke today with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
The Secretary emphasised the need for immediate de-escalation. He expressed US support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged continued efforts to improve communications,” the State Department said about the call between Jaishankar and Rubio.
“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,” he added. Meanwhile, in his post, the Indian EAM said that he told Rubio that India is taking “measured and targeted actions” against Pakistan.
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