New Delhi/ Washington, May 2: In a series of high-level diplomatic exchanges, the United States has reiterated its unwavering support for India following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that killed 26 civilians. The US also emphasized the need for cooperation between India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions in the region, while strongly backing India’s right to defend itself.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth spoke with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday, offering full support to India in its fight against terrorism. A statement from the Indian Ministry of Defence confirmed that Hegseth reiterated the US government’s stance, stating, “The US stands in solidarity with India and supports India’s right to defend itself.” Hegseth also expressed his condolences for the lives lost in the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which has exacerbated already fragile India-Pakistan relations.
In response, Singh underscored Pakistan’s longstanding role in supporting and funding terrorist organizations, labeling the country as a “rogue state” that destabilizes the region. “Pakistan has been exposed as a rogue state, fuelling global terrorism,” Singh said, adding that the world can no longer ignore Pakistan’s complicity in such acts of violence.
Hours earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, reiterating his condolences and reaffirming US commitment to countering terrorism together with India. Rubio stressed the importance of holding the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack accountable while urging India to work with Pakistan to de-escalate tensions.
On the same day, Rubio also called Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasizing the need for Pakistan to condemn the attack and cooperate with India in investigating the incident. Rubio further encouraged Pakistan to engage in direct communication with India to help stabilize the situation and ensure peace in the region.
The US government’s messaging has been clear: while offering strong support to India, the United States is also urging both nations to focus on dialogue and cooperation, despite the mounting tensions. A statement from the US State Department emphasized the need for Pakistan to assist in investigating the attack and to work alongside India to prevent further escalation.
“The Secretary (Rubio) urged Pakistani officials’ cooperation in investigating this unconscionable attack,” the statement read, noting that the US remains committed to working with India and Pakistan to ensure regional security and peace.
The diplomatic exchanges between the two nations come amid continued military activity along the Line of Control, with ceasefire violations and small arms fire reported in recent days. Both sides have engaged in a war of words following the Pahalgam incident, raising concerns about the potential for further conflict.
