US calls on India, Pak to seek 'responsible solution' after Pahalgam attack

The United States on Sunday urged India and Pakistan to pursue a "responsible resolution" following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, while affirming its support for India.

The US State Department said it has been in contact with both governments at multiple levels as tensions escalate after the April 22 attack, which left more than two dozen dead. India has blamed Pakistan for the assault, a claim Islamabad denies, calling instead for an independent investigation.

"This is an evolving situation and we are monitoring developments closely," a State Department spokesperson said in an emailed statement to news agency Reuters. "The United States encourages all parties to work together towards a responsible resolution."
The spokesperson reiterated US condemnation of the attack, saying Washington "stands with India," echoing similar remarks from President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Washington views New Delhi as a key partner in its efforts to counter China's growing influence in Asia. Although Pakistan remains a US ally, its strategic importance has lessened following the 2021 American withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, China on Sunday backed Pakistan’s call for an “impartial probe” into India’s allegations. Beijing’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it supports a neutral investigation, following a call between Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Islamabad proposed that an investigative team could include experts from China, Russia, or Western countries.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also said his government is open to participating in any neutral inquiry into the Pahalgam attack.
The attack, the deadliest in Kashmir since Pulwama in 2019, was claimed by The Resistance Front, a proxy for the banned Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba. Indian officials said three gunmen opened fire on unarmed tourists at the scenic Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam.

In response, India launched a series of diplomatic and security measures, including suspending the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, shutting down the Integrated Check Post at Attari to halt overland trade, and suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals, giving those in India 40 hours to leave.

Both countries have also scaled back staff at their respective High Commissions.
Indian officials defended the moves as necessary and proportionate. Pakistan, however, dismissed the accusations as "frivolous" and warned of reprisals if India takes further steps.

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