US steps in to ease Pak-India tensions

ISLAMABAD: Amid growing concerns over rising tensions between Pakistan and India, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reached out to both civilian and military leadership in Pakistan, offering Washington’s support to help defuse the situation.

According to the US State Department, Rubio held a telephonic conversation with Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir. During the call, he stressed the need for de-escalation and urged both sides to show restraint. The US expressed deep concern over the deteriorating regional security and called for diplomatic solutions to prevent further conflict.

In a parallel move, the US Secretary of State also spoke with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Sources said the two discussed potential steps to ease tensions following recent hostilities across the Line of Control (LoC).

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While welcoming diplomatic efforts, Ishaq Dar issued a strong warning, stating: “If India launches another attack, Pakistan will not hold back.” He added that Pakistan desires peace but is fully prepared to respond to any aggression.

“The ball is now in India’s court,” Dar said, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to defending its sovereignty.

The dual outreach by the US comes as part of a broader international push to prevent the Pakistan-India tensions from spiraling into open conflict.

Pakistan early Saturday launched the military operation against India and targeted the several strategic installations.