The United States has reiterated its unwavering support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed strong solidarity with India’s fight against terrorism, as tensions simmer along the Line of Control and in the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
The statement was issued by US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce during a press briefing in Washington on Thursday.
“We are monitoring the situation closely. Yesterday, the Secretary spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. As President Donald 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,” Bruce said.
The comments come amid heightened diplomatic activity between Washington, New Delhi, and Islamabad, following the April 22 attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, in which 26 people — mostly tourists — were killed by terrorists allegedly backed by Pakistan-based groups.
Bruce confirmed that the Trump administration remains in continuous contact with both governments, reaffirming America's interest in de-escalation and regional stability.
“The Secretary encouraged both countries to work toward a responsible solution that maintains long-term peace and regional stability in South Asia. We continue to be in touch with the governments of both countries, as I mentioned, at multiple levels,” she said.
Citing a readout of conversations between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and senior officials in New Delhi and Islamabad, Bruce underlined Washington’s desire for South Asian diplomacy to avert any further escalation.
The attack in Pahalgam, which drew condemnation from across the world, has prompted India to take a series of punitive diplomatic and security measures against Pakistan. These include suspending the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, shutting down the only operational land border at Attari, downgrading diplomatic ties, and granting the armed forces complete operational freedom to determine an appropriate response.
The United States has emerged as one of India’s strongest international backers in the current crisis, openly condemning terrorism and encouraging both nuclear-armed neighbours to show restraint. However, Bruce was non-committal when asked whether de-escalation calls were being heeded. “We are asking for a responsible resolution from both parties. And beyond that, there's nothing I can give you, any other details,” she said.
The situation on the ground remains tense, with Pakistan continuing to violate the 2021 ceasefire agreement, including firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control and International Border. The violations have increased in frequency following India’s resolve to retaliate militarily against cross-border terrorism.
As global pressure mounts on Pakistan to curb militant activities, the diplomatic spotlight remains fixed on developments in the region, with India maintaining that it reserves the right to determine the timing and nature of its response to the killings in Pahalgam.