Amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India following the Kashmir incident, the United States has undertaken a diplomatic initiative. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to engage with the foreign ministers of both nations to promote de-escalation and prevent further conflict.

“We are actively engaging with both sides, urging them to avoid escalating the situation,” stated US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce during a recent press briefing.

Bruce indicated that Secretary Rubio is scheduled to hold direct discussions with the Pakistani and Indian foreign ministers on Wednesday. He will emphasize the significance of exercising restraint and fostering open communication.

“Secretary Rubio is a firm believer in the power of diplomacy as a primary tool,” the spokesperson added, noting his encouragement for “other foreign ministers globally to follow suit” in supporting efforts to uphold regional stability.

This diplomatic push arises as relations between Pakistan and India have deteriorated in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam incident, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including Indian navy personnel and civilians.

India has attempted to implicate Pakistan in the attack, yet has not provided substantiated evidence. Pakistan has refuted these claims and has offered its cooperation in an impartial and transparent international investigation.

While the State Department refrained from commenting on the specific allegations, the spokesperson reaffirmed the US stance: “We are closely monitoring the situation and remain in active communication with both governments.”

In response to a question concerning remarks by a Pakistani minister regarding historical cooperation with the US, Bruce declined to comment directly. Instead, she emphasized the ongoing engagement with Islamabad at multiple levels.

When questioned about recent collaboration related to Pakistan’s role in the apprehension of a Daesh suspect, Bruce acknowledged Pakistan’s assistance, stating: “We welcomed that arrest at the time it occurred.”

The briefing also addressed concerns within the US Congress regarding Pakistan’s internal political affairs. However, Bruce chose not to comment, emphasizing that current diplomatic priorities center on de-escalating regional tensions and promoting direct dialogue between leaders.