US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had held a conversation with Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, on Friday (local time), offering American assistance in initiating dialogue with India amid the escalating tensions in the region.
The US Department of State confirmed the call, stating, “Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir earlier today. He continued to urge both parties to find ways to de-escalate and offered US assistance in starting constructive talks in order to avoid future conflicts.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also weighed in on the matter, highlighting Washington’s intent to de-escalate the simmering crisis. “This is something that the Secretary of State and, of course, our National Security Adviser as well, Marco Rubio, has been very much involved in. The President wants to see this de-escalate as quickly as possible,” she said.
Leavitt noted that the conflict between India and Pakistan has a long history, and ongoing talks aim to prevent further escalation. “The conflict between the nations is an old one, and talks are on to prevent further escalations,” she added.
The discussions come at a time of heightened tension in the region, with Pakistan conducting cross-border shelling on Saturday, inflicting significant damage on civilian areas in Jammu’s Rajouri district. The shelling triggered panic among residents, with several homes and properties damaged.
Additionally, drones have been sighted at 26 locations along the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, including suspected armed drones. The affected locations include Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozpur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet and Lakhi Nala.
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Regrettably, an armed drone targeted a civilian area in Ferozpur, resulting in injuries to members of a local family. Medical assistance has been provided to the injured, and security forces have sanitised the area, according to defence sources.
In response, Indian forces launched retaliatory strikes immediately after Pakistan targeted 26 locations across India on Saturday. Intermittent firing is still reported at several locations along the LoC.
At least four airbases in Pakistan were hit by Indian strikes in the early hours of Saturday, according to top government sources, as the confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours continues to escalate.
The Indian Armed Forces have maintained a high state of alert, tracking and engaging all aerial threats using counter-drone systems.
“The situation is under close and constant watch, and prompt action is being taken wherever necessary. Citizens, especially in border areas, are advised to remain indoors, limit unnecessary movement, and strictly follow safety instructions issued by local authorities,” said the Ministry of Defence in a statement.
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