In the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, the United States has reaffirmed its unwavering support for India. During a press briefing on Thursday (local time), US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce firmly declined to entertain a Pakistani journalist’s question regarding border tensions between India and Pakistan.
“I am not going to be remarking on it,” Bruce said, shutting down the query. “The President and the Secretary have made their positions clear. I will not continue with something of that manner.” Her response signaled a clear avoidance of diverting attention from the core issue—the terror attack—and highlighted the US’s position of not equating the victim and the perpetrator in such matters.
Bruce reiterated the US government’s strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. “As President Trump and Secretary Rubio have made clear, the United States stands with India and strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. We pray for the lives lost and for the recovery of the injured. The perpetrators of this heinous act must be brought to justice,” she said.
The April 22 attack targeted tourists at the Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, killing 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen in one of the deadliest assaults since the 2019 Pulwama bombing.
In a display of solidarity, US President Donald Trump spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, expressing deep condolences and extending full support to India. The Ministry of External Affairs posted on X, “President Donald Trump @realDonaldTrump @POTUS called PM @narendramodi and conveyed his deepest condolences… and expressed full support to India to bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous attack.”
Vice President JD Vance also called PM Modi, offering his condolences and stating that the United States is ready to assist India in its fight against terrorism. Modi thanked both Trump and Vance for their unwavering support.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment in a post on X, writing, “The United States stands with India,” reaffirming bipartisan American backing for India in the aftermath of the tragedy.
In response to the attack, India has implemented a series of tough countermeasures against Pakistan, citing its continued support for cross-border terrorism. Following a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced five decisive steps.
These include declaring Pakistan’s Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors in New Delhi as persona non grata, ordering their departure within a week, and reciprocally withdrawing Indian counterparts from Islamabad. Additionally, five supporting staff members from both missions will be removed.
The Integrated Check Post at Attari has been closed effective immediately, with only those who crossed over on valid endorsements allowed to return before May 1, 2025. The Indus Waters Treaty has also been suspended until Pakistan credibly renounces its backing of terrorism.
Further measures include revoking SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) privileges for Pakistani nationals. Any SVES visas previously issued are now canceled, and individuals under the scheme have been given 48 hours to leave India. The diplomatic staff at both High Commissions will also be reduced to 30 by May 1, 2025, from the current 55.
These actions reflect India’s firm resolve to hold Pakistan accountable and to safeguard its national security, while maintaining strong global partnerships in its fight against terrorism.
