The United States has expressed its hope that India’s actions against Pakistan after Pahalgam attack will not escalate into a wider regional conflict. 

US Vice President JD Vance, in an interview on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier” stated, “Our hope here is that India responds to this terrorist attack in a way that doesn’t lead to a broader regional conflict.”

The attack, one of the deadliest in the region since 2000, has significantly heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. India has suggested cross-border involvement without providing evidence, a claim Pakistan vehemently denies.  Both civilian and military leadership in Pakistan have rejected the accusations and called for a neutral investigation.

Vance added, “And we hope, frankly, that Pakistan, to the extent that they’re responsible, cooperates with India to make sure that the terrorists sometimes operating in their territory are hunted down and dealt with.”

This sentiment echoes statements from other top US officials, including President Donald Trump, who condemned the attack as “terror” and “unconscionable,” while expressing support for India without explicitly blaming Pakistan.  The US, while maintaining its alliance with Pakistan, prioritizes its relationship with India in its strategy to counter China’s growing influence.

The US State Department has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.

“This government is in constant communication…We are asking for a responsible resolution from both parties,” State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated at a routine briefing.

She further emphasized the US stance, saying, “As the President articulated to Prime Minister Modi last week, the US stands strong with India against terrorism, and Prime Minister Modi has our full support.” 

Bruce also noted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had spoken with both Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging them to find a “responsible solution” that ensures long-term peace and regional stability.  The ongoing communication, according to Bruce, occurs “at multiple levels.”

In the wake of the attack, India suspended the Indus Water Treaty, both countries closed airspace to each other’s airlines, and exchanged fire across their border.