US Condemns Attack in IIOJK, Declines to Comment on Region’s Status

The United States has voiced its condemnation of the recent attack in the Pahalgam area of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). However, the US State Department has stated that it is not taking a stance regarding the status of Kashmir or Jammu.

During a press briefing, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce affirmed that the US stands alongside India and firmly denounces all forms of terrorism.

“We offer our prayers for the families of those who lost their lives and for the swift recovery of those injured. We urge that the individuals responsible for this abhorrent act be brought before the justice system.”

In response to a question about potentially mediating between India and Pakistan to reduce tensions, Bruce stated,

“The situation is evolving rapidly, and we are closely monitoring developments. Currently, we are refraining from expressing any opinion on the status of either Kashmir or Jammu.”

Furthermore, when questioned about President Donald Trump’s previous offer to facilitate peace between Pakistan and India during his first term, Bruce replied, “I will refrain from commenting on that matter. I have nothing further to add on that topic.”

“The President and Secretary have already articulated their viewpoints and made their positions known. I will not be elaborating on this matter further.”

Background of the Attack

On Tuesday, assailants opened fire on tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), resulting in over 20 fatalities.

The “Kashmir Resistance” group has claimed responsibility for the assault in a social media post. The group conveyed displeasure regarding the settlement of over 85,000 “outsiders” in the area, which they claim is inciting a “demographic shift”.

In a subsequent statement released on Wednesday, the group clarified that “the individuals targeted were not typical tourists; instead, they possessed connections to and affiliations with Indian security agencies.”

Following the attack, India has reportedly paused discussions regarding the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.

Pakistan has rejected the declaration made by the Indian government, asserting that any attempt to impede or redirect Pakistan’s water allocation would be regarded as an “act of war” and would be countered with a forceful response across all aspects of national capabilities.

The National Security Committee convened and declared that India must resist the temptation to capitalize on such unfortunate incidents for its own benefit and fully accept accountability for its inability to ensure the safety of its citizens.

The committee has resolved to close the Wagah Border and halt “all trade with India, encompassing trade to and from any third country via Pakistan.

Pakistan has also chosen to suspend all visas issued to Indian nationals under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) and considers them immediately nullified.