Kashmir Tensions Intensify Amid Calls for U.S. Mediation

After a lethal attack in Kashmir, India's foreign minister discussed perpetrators with U.S. Secretary Rubio. The U.S. urged India and Pakistan to calm escalating tensions. Both nations have taken retaliatory measures, while Pakistan calls for international mediation. The UN and China urge restraint.

In the aftermath of a deadly attack in Kashmir, India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar communicated with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the urgent need to bring perpetrators to justice. This exchange marked a critical moment as the U.S. attempted to ease rising tensions between nuclear-capable neighbors, India and Pakistan. During a series of phone calls on Wednesday, Rubio emphasized the urgency of both nations working collaboratively to reduce the heightened state of affairs.

Subsequently, the U.S. confirmed its support for India's fight against extremism, urging Pakistan to assist in investigating the attack that claimed 26 lives. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appealed to the United States to pressure India to moderate its rhetoric. Conversations between senior defense officials in India and the U.S. further underscored America's solidarity with India's right to self-defense.

Adding further complexity, both India and Pakistan have closed their airspace to each other's airlines and engaged in cross-border fire, escalating the situation. International figures, including the United Nations, have urged caution, while China advised restraint earlier this week. Analysts suggest both nations are on high alert, with potential military actions looming.

(With inputs from agencies.)