Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged both nations to show restraint and immediately de-escalate the situation, the State Department said on Thursday.
During a press briefing, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that Secretary Rubio held separate phone conversations with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar earlier in the day.
“This morning, Secretary Marco Rubio spoke with Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif and EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar. In both calls, the Secretary emphasised the need for immediate de-escalation and called for an end to the violence. He expressed US support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged continued efforts to improve communications,” Bruce stated.
The outreach comes in the wake of increased hostilities along the border, including Pakistan’s reported missile and drone attacks targeting Indian areas near the International Border. According to Indian defence sources, Pakistan fired eight missiles at Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia— all of which were successfully intercepted by Indian air defence systems. Pakistani drones were also shot down over Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir.
In a follow-up statement, the US State Department reiterated Rubio’s condolences over the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 28 civilian lives. “The Secretary reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism,” the statement noted.
Responding to the conversation, Jaishankar acknowledged the United States’ support. “Spoke with US @SecRubio this evening. Deeply appreciate US commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism,” Jaishankar wrote on X. “Underlined India’s targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism. Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation.”
Tensions have remained high following India’s launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7, a retaliatory strike targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Indian officials have maintained that further attacks on military assets will provoke strong countermeasures.
Rubio’s intervention signals growing international concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation and highlights the US push for stability in the region through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
