Washington, D.C. – In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, US Vice President J.D. Vance has expressed hope that Pakistan will cooperate with India to bring the perpetrators to justice. The attack, which occurred last month, claimed the lives of 26 people, including 25 tourists and one local, making it one of the deadliest incidents in the region in recent years.
Speaking on Fox News’ Special Report with Bret Baier, Vice President Vance emphasized the importance of regional stability. “Our hope here is that India responds to this terrorist attack in a way that doesn’t lead to a broader regional conflict,” he stated. “And we hope, frankly, that Pakistan, to the extent that they’re responsible, cooperates with India to ensure that the terrorists operating in their territory are hunted down and dealt with.”
Rising Tensions Between India and Pakistan
The attack has further strained relations between India and Pakistan, with both nations taking strong diplomatic measures. India has downgraded its ties with Pakistan, including pausing the Indus Waters Treaty, expelling Pakistani military attaches, and closing its airspace to Pakistani airlines. In response, Pakistan has suspended the Simla Agreement and taken reciprocal actions.
Indian Home Minister Amit Shah issued a stern warning to terrorists, stating, “If anyone thinks that a cowardly attack is their victory, they must remember this is Narendra Modi’s India, and revenge will be taken, one by one.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also vowed to pursue the perpetrators and their backers “to the ends of the earth.”
US Calls for Cooperation
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been actively engaging with both Indian and Pakistani officials to de-escalate tensions. Rubio recently spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging Pakistan to cooperate in the investigation and work towards regional peace.
The Pahalgam attack has drawn international condemnation, with global leaders expressing solidarity with the victims and their families. Vice President Vance, who was in India on a four-day visit during the attack, had earlier condemned the incident and extended his support to the Indian government.
A Call for Justice
The Pahalgam attack has reignited discussions on cross-border terrorism and the need for stronger international cooperation to combat such threats. As India and Pakistan navigate this tense period, the global community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures justice for the victims and peace in the region.
