New Delhi:
US Vice President JD Vance on Thursday expressed hope that India’s response to the devastating terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 dead, would be measured to prevent escalation into a wider regional conflict. He also urged Pakistan to extend full cooperation to India in tracking down and bringing to justice the terrorists behind the Pahalgam attack.
“We hope India’s response is firm yet avoids triggering a broader conflict in the region. At the same time, we expect Pakistan—if it bears any responsibility—to work with India to ensure terrorists operating from its soil are apprehended and brought to justice,” Vance said during a Fox News podcast interview.
Vance, who was visiting India with his family when the attack occurred, personally conveyed his condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi soon after the incident. According to External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, Vance reaffirmed America’s commitment to standing by India and offered full support in the fight against terrorism.
In a social media post, Vance wrote: “Usha and I are heartbroken by the terrible terrorist attack in Pahalgam. We have been deeply moved by the beauty of India and its people during our visit. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this horrific tragedy.”
US leaders, including President Donald Trump, also condemned the attack, describing it as an act of terror and expressing solidarity with India, though without directly attributing blame to Pakistan.
The brutal assault, which killed 26 people—including one Nepali national—and injured many others, unfolded in Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist destination known as “Mini Switzerland.” Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as gunmen opened fire in the exposed, open valley, leaving tourists with little chance to seek cover.
In the aftermath, Indian security forces launched extensive search operations to track down the assailants. The Indian government responded swiftly, suspending the Indus Waters Treaty indefinitely and ordering all Pakistani nationals to leave the country.
The Pahalgam massacre stands as one of the deadliest terror incidents since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, marking a grim chapter in the region’s recent history.
