India, US Call for Justice After Pahalgam Terror Attack; Urge Calm in South Asia
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday held a conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, raising the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives—most of them tourists.
In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with US @SecRubio yesterday. Its perpetrators, backers and planners must be brought to justice.”
Following the call, Rubio echoed the sentiment and emphasized that those behind the April 22 attack must be held accountable. He also expressed condolences for the victims, calling the incident “horrific”.
The US State Department, through spokesperson Tammy Bruce, stated that Rubio reaffirmed America’s commitment to counterterrorism cooperation with India. He also encouraged India and Pakistan to reduce tensions and focus on maintaining peace in the region.
Rubio also spoke separately with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging Islamabad to condemn the Pahalgam attack and assist in the investigation. He pressed for renewed dialogue between India and Pakistan to restore stability and re-establish direct communication.
A press release from the Pakistan Prime Minister’s Office confirmed Sharif’s discussion with Rubio and noted that Sharif briefed him on Pakistan’s stance concerning recent regional developments after the attack.
Meanwhile, the situation between the two neighbours continues to deteriorate. Diplomatic ties have been scaled back, and ceasefire violations have increased along the Line of Control (LoC), prompting a sharp response from India.
The coordinated diplomatic outreach signals renewed US engagement in South Asia amid rising hostilities and the international community’s call for accountability and peacebuilding efforts in the region.
