WASHINGTON, D.C.: The United States on Friday reaffirmed its unwavering support for India in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, including several tourists. The US also reiterated its backing for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and condemned terrorism in all forms.
“As President Trump conveyed to Prime Minister Modi last week, the United States stands strong with India against terrorism, and Prime Minister Modi has our full support,” said State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce during a press briefing.
Bruce confirmed ongoing communication with both Indian and Pakistani officials amid rising tensions. “The Secretary [of State] encouraged both countries to pursue a responsible resolution that ensures long-term peace and regional stability in South Asia,” she added, correcting an earlier phrasing during the conference.
She further noted that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken directly with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. “We continue to engage both governments at multiple levels,” Bruce said, while declining to provide additional details when asked if US calls for de-escalation were being heeded.
Following the April 22 attack, India has taken a series of retaliatory measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, closing the Integrated Check Post at Attari, and reducing diplomatic staff at Pakistan’s High Commission. The Indian Army has also responded to multiple ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, with recent incidents reported in Kupwara, Poonch, Tutmari Gali, and Rampur sectors.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth expressed his condolences and support in a phone call with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. “I spoke with Minister Singh to personally offer my deepest condolences following the heinous attack. The US stands with India and its people,” Hegseth posted on X.
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar also reiterated India’s stance in a conversation with Secretary Rubio, emphasizing the need to hold the “perpetrators, backers, and planners” of the attack accountable.
