India Demands Justice After Pahalgam Attack, Raises Issue with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has confirmed a high-level conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio following the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 26 civilian lives, most of them tourists. In the call, Jaishankar emphasized that the “perpetrators, backers, and planners” of the attack “must be brought to justice,” highlighting India’s determination to hold all responsible parties accountable.

 

Secretary Rubio extended his condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to counter-terrorism cooperation with India. He also urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions in the wake of the attack and recent ceasefire violations along the Line of Control. The US called on Pakistan to unequivocally condemn the attack and fully cooperate with the investigation, underlining the need for accountability and regional stability.

 

The diplomatic exchange comes as India implements a series of punitive measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and tightening border controls. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted security forces operational freedom to decide on the timing and nature of India’s response, signaling a firm stance against cross-border terrorism.

 

Source: The Times of India