U.S. President Donald Trump described the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan as a regrettable situation, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged with officials from both nuclear-armed nations following India’s military strikes on multiple targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
On X, Rubio stated he was closely tracking developments and emphasized Washington’s commitment to facilitating dialogue for a “peaceful resolution.”
The State Department confirmed Rubio held discussions with the national security advisers of both countries, encouraging open communication to prevent further escalation. India’s embassy in Washington reported that Ajit Doval, India’s national security adviser, briefed Rubio on the military actions, which occurred early Wednesday in Asia.
Strategic Context of U.S. Relations
India serves as a key U.S. ally in countering China’s growing regional influence, while Pakistan remains a partner, though its strategic significance has diminished since the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
Following the April 22 Islamist militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 people, Trump and other U.S. leaders expressed solidarity with India without directly implicating Pakistan.
Analysts suggested last month that the U.S. might initially adopt a restrained approach to the India-Pakistan dispute, given its diplomatic focus on conflicts like Russia’s war in Ukraine and Israel’s war in Gaza.
On April 25, Trump noted, “They’ll get it figured out one way or the other,” expressing confidence in the two nations’ ability to manage their relations.
Kashmir Conflict and Regional Tensions
Pakistan announced it was preparing a response to India’s military operations, which were prompted by the April 22 attack.
India, predominantly Hindu, and Pakistan, predominantly Muslim, both claim full sovereignty over Muslim-majority Kashmir, controlling only portions of the region and having fought multiple wars over it.
India attributed the attack to Pakistan, which Pakistan denied, calling for an impartial investigation.
“It’s a shame, we just heard about it,” Trump remarked to reporters at the White House.
I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They’ve been fighting for a long time.”
He added, “I just hope it ends very quickly.” The U.S. has consistently urged both nations to reduce tensions and find a “responsible solution” through ongoing high-level contacts.
