Jaishankar, Rubio Condemn Pahalgam Attack: Call for Justice as India Strikes Back
In the aftermath of the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives—mostly tourists—India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling for accountability and justice. “Its perpetrators, backers, and planners must be brought to justice,” Jaishankar posted on X (formerly Twitter) following the conversation.
The dialogue came amid escalating tensions along the Line of Control (LoC), where Pakistan has reportedly violated the ceasefire for seven consecutive nights. Rubio expressed condolences and reaffirmed America’s commitment to counter-terrorism cooperation with India. He also urged India to engage with Pakistan diplomatically to de-escalate tensions in the region, according to US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
India, meanwhile, has responded strongly. In addition to intensifying military actions across the LoC, the Indian government has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, shut the Integrated Check Post at Attari, and scaled down its diplomatic presence in Islamabad.
The Indian Army retaliated proportionately to unprovoked small-arms fire by Pakistan across several sectors including Kupwara, Uri, and Akhnoor. Security operations in the Kashmir Valley have been heightened, with full operational freedom granted to armed forces to deal with emerging threats.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), after an emergency meeting, linked the Pahalgam attack to cross-border elements, noting the assault followed successful elections in Jammu and Kashmir—suggesting a deliberate attempt to destabilize peace in the region.
India’s message is clear: those behind the attack will not go unpunished.
