External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discusses Pahalgam terror attack with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio; India reaffirms commitment to counterterrorism and holds Pakistan accountable for escalating tensions.
New Delhi, May 1:
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday confirmed that he spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the Pahalgam terror attack, reiterating India’s firm stance on accountability and justice.
“Discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with US @SecRubio yesterday. Its perpetrators, backers and planners must be brought to justice,” Jaishankar posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The attack, which occurred on April 22 and left 26 people dead, has been linked to Pakistan-based terror outfits, leading to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. In recent days, the Line of Control (LoC) has witnessed seven consecutive nights of ceasefire violations, with the Indian Army responding proportionately.
US Urges De-escalation, Condemns Attack:
According to US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Rubio expressed deep sorrow over the attack and reaffirmed America’s support in India’s fight against terrorism. He also urged India and Pakistan to take steps to de-escalate tensions and promote regional stability.
Also Read: India Closes Airspace to Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions Post-Kashmir Terror Attack
India’s Measures in Response:
Following the attack, India has taken a series of diplomatic and strategic steps:
- Indus Waters Treaty has been placed in abeyance.
- The Integrated Check Post at Attari has been shut.
- India has downgraded diplomatic presence by reducing the strength of High Commissions.
- The armed forces have been granted full operational freedom to determine a proportionate response.
Cross-Border Shelling Intensifies:
The Indian Army responded decisively to Pakistan’s unprovoked small-arms fire across the LoC, particularly in Kupwara, Uri, Akhnoor, Tutmari Gali, and Rampur sectors. Anti-terror operations have also intensified in Kashmir Valley.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met soon after the Pahalgam attack and emphasized its cross-border origins, occurring just after peaceful elections in Jammu and Kashmir — a region historically targeted by militant groups aiming to disrupt democratic processes.
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Pahalgam terror attack, S Jaishankar Marco Rubio, India US relations, Pakistan ceasefire violations, Indus Waters Treaty, Line of Control, Kashmir security, CCS meeting, cross-border terrorism, anti-terror operations