India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Holds Key Talks With US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth Amid Border Tensions

India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in a high-level phone conversation that comes amid escalating tensions with Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. The attack, which occurred on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians and has triggered a series of punitive measures by India, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Attari land border, and downgrading of diplomatic ties with Pakistan.

 

During the call, the Pahalgam attack and the broader security situation on India’s western front were discussed in detail. Singh briefed Hegseth on India’s resolve to hold the perpetrators accountable and emphasized the cross-border linkages to the incident. The conversation is part of a broader diplomatic push, with India seeking international support and understanding for its stance against terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

 

The talks also come as Pakistan has placed its military on high alert and shut its airspace to Indian flights, further escalating the standoff. Both sides have exchanged fire across the Line of Control in recent days. The engagement between Singh and Hegseth underscores the strategic importance of India-US defence cooperation during periods of regional crisis.

 

Source: India TV News