Following a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated significantly, raising fears of a potential military conflict.
Citing intelligence reports, India has hinted at the possibility of launching an attack on Pakistan. In response, the United States has urged India to avoid a broader conflict in the region.
According to a report published on Friday (May 2) by TRT Global, the US expressed hope that India’s response to the recent attack in Kashmir would not lead to a larger regional war. US Vice President JD Vance stated that the US does not want to see further escalation in South Asia.
In an interview on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier,” Vance said, “We hope India responds in a way that prevents a large regional conflict from emerging as a result of this incident.”
He also stated that the US wants Pakistan to cooperate with India in bringing those responsible for the attack to justice.
“We hope Pakistan will coordinate with India to apprehend and punish the terrorists, if they are found to be on Pakistani soil,” Vance said. “That is how we hope this issue will be resolved. We are closely monitoring the situation. Let’s see what happens.”
This statement comes amid a backdrop of Pakistani military exercises that began a day earlier. Pakistan’s state media reported that its military had conducted full-scale war drills showcasing modern weapons and strategies, with active participation from officers and soldiers.
India and Pakistan’s relations are currently at one of their lowest points in recent years. Following the killing of 26 tourists in a terrorist attack in India-administered Kashmir, India accused Pakistan of sponsoring terrorism.
Pakistan has rejected these allegations, calling them “baseless,” and warned of a response to any Indian actions. In this context, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also urged de-escalation in South Asia.
The United Nations has called on both countries to exercise “maximum restraint” and resolve their issues through “meaningful, mutual dialogue and peaceful means.”