The United States has reiterated its full support to India in the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 tourists – including one Nepali citizen – were killed in a brutal ambush on Tuesday.
US State Department: “Perpetrators Must Be Brought to Justice”
In a press briefing on Thursday (local time), US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said:
“As President Trump and Secretary Rubio have made clear, the United States stands with India, strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. We pray for the lives of those lost, and call for the perpetrators of this heinous act to be brought to justice.”
When asked whether the US supports India’s position that Pakistan is behind the attack, Bruce replied:
“It was a horrible situation… but that’s going to be the extent of the comments at this point. We are monitoring the situation closely and are not taking a position on the status of Kashmir or Jammu either.”
☎️ Diplomatic Outreach: Trump, Vance Call PM Modi
US President Donald Trump personally spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday. According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, Trump conveyed:
“His deepest condolences… and full support to bring the perpetrators of this heinous attack to justice.”
On Truth Social, Trump wrote:
“Deeply disturbing news out of Kashmir. The United States stands strong with India against Terrorism… Our hearts are with you all!”
US Vice President JD Vance also called PM Modi, expressing strong condemnation and reiterating that the US stands with India:
“He expressed readiness to provide all assistance in the joint fight against terrorism.”
🇺🇸 Senior US Leaders Condemn Attack
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote on X: “The United States stands with India.”
- US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz called the incident a: “Terrible tragedy. Please join me in praying for the victims and their families.”
⚠️ Context: The Attack and India’s Response
The attack occurred at Baisaran meadow in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir – a popular tourist spot. This incident is the deadliest since Pulwama 2019, which had claimed 40 CRPF lives.
In response, India convened a CCS meeting, led by PM Modi, and initiated major diplomatic countermeasures:
- Suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (1960)
- Closed the Integrated Check Post at Attari
- Ordered Pakistani diplomats to leave within 48 hours
- Cancelled SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals
The global reaction, especially from the United States, reflects an escalating diplomatic consensus against cross-border terrorism, with calls growing stronger for accountability and global cooperation in the wake of this cowardly and devastating attack.