The U.S. State Department urged India and Pakistan on Sunday to work toward a “responsible solution” following a deadly Islamist militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. The April 22 attack, which killed over two dozen people, has reignited tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
India immediately blamed Pakistan for supporting the militants, a claim Pakistan denies. Pakistan has called for a neutral investigation while India has responded with sharp measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and engaging in cross-border fire.
A State Department spokesperson confirmed Washington has been in close contact with both governments, emphasizing U.S. support for India while condemning the terrorist attack. Officials reiterated that the Trump administration stands firmly with India but encouraged restraint to prevent further escalation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to hunt down the attackers, promising swift and severe retribution. Calls from Indian leaders for military action have intensified, while Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian flights.
Experts suggest that although Washington supports India’s counter-terrorism efforts, the Trump administration’s current global challenges—such as conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza—may limit its involvement in South Asia. Analysts warn that unchecked escalation between India and Pakistan could destabilize the region.
A little-known group called Kashmir Resistance claimed responsibility for the attack, but Indian intelligence links it to Pakistan-based terror networks including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.
