As India and Pakistan exchanged military blows following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, US Vice-President J.D. Vance clarified that Washington will not step into the conflict, even as concerns rise over a potential escalation between two nuclear-armed nations. In a televised interview, Vance stated, “We’re not going to insert ourselves into a war that’s ultimately not our concern,” adding that although the threat of nuclear escalation is troubling, it lies beyond U.S. control.
Vance’s remarks followed India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, a targeted airstrike campaign on terror bases within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The April 22 Pahalgam massacre, which claimed 26 lives, triggered Operation Sindoor. In retaliation, Pakistan launched missile and drone attacks targeting Indian military bases in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. India’s advanced defense systems intercepted and neutralized the threats. Reaffirming its stance, the Indian government declared its steadfast commitment to protecting national sovereignty and citizen safety.
Speaking candidly, Vance acknowledged the severity of the situation but described it as a regional conflict outside the US’s jurisdiction. He pointed out that tensions between India and Pakistan are deeply rooted and not easily swayed by American diplomacy. “We can encourage calm,” he said, “but we can’t command these nations to disarm or disengage.”
Still, Washington isn’t idle. Vance emphasized the importance of behind-the-scenes diplomacy, noting that the US hopes to prevent a broader conflict—especially one with nuclear implications. “We’re watching closely,” he said, “and working to keep things from spiraling into something catastrophic.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spearheaded diplomatic efforts by conducting separate phone conversations with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Rubio expressed US condolences for the victims of the Pahalgam attack and affirmed support for India’s anti-terror measures. He also urged both sides to initiate direct dialogue and reduce hostility.
In his discussion with Sharif, Rubio pushed Pakistan to take measurable actions against terrorist networks operating from its territory. Stressing that diplomacy is the only viable path forward, Rubio reiterated the need for both governments to prioritize stability in a volatile region.
