Image Credit: X account @SecRubio
US Urges India-Pakistan De-escalation in Call With Pak Army Chief
In a diplomatic intervention aimed at calming rising tensions in South Asia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation on Friday with Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir. The call, confirmed by a spokesperson from the US Department of State, focused on the urgent need for both India and Pakistan to pursue de-escalation and prevent further military confrontation.
The conversation comes amid a week of intensified military activity, including large-scale drone attacks, artillery shelling, and the destruction of cross-border terror infrastructure. The escalation has raised alarm across the international community, with fears that unchecked hostilities could spiral into a broader regional conflict.
US Offers Support for Constructive Dialogue
According to Department of State spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Secretary Rubio not only urged both sides to reduce tensions but also extended an offer of US assistance in initiating “constructive talks” aimed at preventing future conflict. This marks a notable diplomatic gesture from Washington, signaling concern over the fragile security dynamics between two nuclear-armed neighbors.
“Mr Rubio also offered US assistance in starting constructive talks to avoid future conflicts,” said Bruce, indicating that the US is prepared to play a proactive role in regional peacebuilding if both parties are willing.
Tensions Still High Despite Diplomatic Push
Despite these diplomatic efforts, ground realities remain tense. India has responded forcefully to recent provocations, including drone attacks and attempts at infiltration, with military retaliation targeting key sites across the border. Pakistan, on the other hand, has shut down its airspace following explosions at multiple air bases, and continues to claim it is responding to Indian aggression.
Both nations have yet to officially acknowledge any backchannel communications, and the pace of escalation on the ground appears unchecked. However, the US’s outreach is seen as a possible first step toward diplomatic dialogue.
Whether India and Pakistan will reciprocate the US call for talks remains uncertain, but Washington’s intervention underscores growing global concern over the risk of a larger conflict in the region.
