US Stays Neutral Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions: What’s Next?
US Response to India-Pakistan Conflict
New York: As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, the United States has declared it will not intervene in a conflict that it considers "not our business."
In a recent interview with Fox News, Vice President J.D. Vance emphasized that while the US cannot dictate actions to either nation, it can advocate for de-escalation between the two nuclear powers.
"We are concerned whenever nuclear nations face off in significant conflict," Vance remarked, addressing concerns about a potential nuclear confrontation.
He referenced statements from President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who have both expressed a desire for rapid de-escalation of tensions.
"We cannot control these nations. India has its issues with Pakistan, and Pakistan has responded accordingly. Our role is to encourage dialogue and de-escalation, but we will not insert ourselves into a war that does not involve us directly," Vance stated.
"The US cannot compel India or Pakistan to disarm. Our approach will remain diplomatic, and we hope this situation does not escalate into a broader conflict or, heaven forbid, a nuclear war. While we are concerned, we do not believe that is imminent," he added.
During their first official visit to India, Vance and his family were present when a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, primarily tourists.
Following the attack, India initiated Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
On Thursday evening, India successfully thwarted an attempt by the Pakistani military to strike military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur, and other areas, as fears of a larger military confrontation grew.
In response to these developments, India's defense ministry affirmed its readiness to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens.
Earlier that day, Secretary of State Rubio engaged in separate discussions with India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, stressing the urgency of de-escalation.
In his conversation with Jaishankar, Rubio reiterated US support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged ongoing communication efforts.
He also expressed condolences for the tragic terrorist incident in Pahalgam and reaffirmed the US commitment to collaborate with India in combating terrorism.
In his dialogue with Sharif, Rubio urged Pakistan to take definitive actions to cease support for terrorist organizations.
During a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce highlighted Rubio's emphasis on the necessity for de-escalation in his talks with both leaders.
"At this critical juncture, it is essential to halt the cycle of violence, which is our primary focus right now," she stated.
The message from the US government is clear: violence must cease, as military action has historically proven ineffective in resolving conflicts.
"There must be a shift in approach. This administration has made it evident that military solutions are not viable; diplomacy is the path forward to address long-standing issues," she added.
When asked if Rubio proposed mediation between the two nations, Bruce responded, "We will not disclose specific details, but that is our policy."
The US continues to advocate for a responsible resolution between India and Pakistan and remains engaged with both governments at various levels.
Washington seeks accountability for those responsible for the violence and supports efforts in that direction.
Bruce reiterated that the conflict should not escalate, noting that it has been a longstanding issue and expressing disappointment over recent developments following the terrorist attack.
"Communication is crucial; there must be dialogue rather than silence. The US has been actively involved in discussions with leaders from both countries over the past few days," she concluded.