Image Credit: X account @DrSJaishankar
Jaishankar Seeks U.S. Help to Punish Pahalgam Attack Plotters
In the wake of the brutal Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 civilians dead, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reached out to the United States, urging its assistance in ensuring justice is served. The minister conveyed this demand during a high-level diplomatic conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizing the need to not only identify the attackers but also bring their sponsors and planners to justice.
The April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, targeted a popular tourist meadow. According to officials, the assailants selectively identified and executed their victims, with two of the three attackers identified as Pakistani nationals. India has squarely blamed Pakistan for the incident, accusing it of sheltering and enabling terror infrastructure. Pakistan has rejected these claims and demanded an international probe.
India-U.S. Diplomacy on Terror
During the conversation, Jaishankar highlighted the regional threat posed by cross-border terrorism and underscored India’s expectation that global partners, particularly the United States, take a firm stance. He stressed that the international community must take coordinated action to dismantle terror networks and penalize those providing them political or logistical cover.
Secretary Rubio expressed condolences and termed the attack “horrific,” assuring India of continued U.S. cooperation in counterterrorism efforts. At the same time, he urged both India and Pakistan to avoid further escalation and explore diplomatic solutions to ease growing tensions.
Indo-Pak Tensions Escalate
In retaliation for the attack, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, revoked all visas for Pakistani nationals, and shut its airspace to Pakistani airlines. Pakistan has responded with a reciprocal airspace ban and elevated military alertness along the Line of Control.
As both nations dig in, the risk of broader conflict looms. With two nuclear-armed powers at odds, the global community has stressed the urgency of restraint and dialogue. However, India remains firm that justice must not be delayed and those behind the Pahalgam massacre must face consequences.
The demand for justice has now become a litmus test for international resolve against state-enabled terrorism, with the U.S. and other global powers under pressure to stand firmly by India.
