US Responds to Pahalgam Attack in IIOJK

The United States has condemned the recent attack in the Pahalgam region of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), stating that it is not taking a stance on the ultimate 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 departed and wish a swift recovery to those injured, further urging that the perpetrators of this terrible act face justice.”

When questioned about potentially mediating tensions between India and Pakistan, Bruce responded,

“The situation is evolving rapidly, and we are monitoring it very closely. We are not currently taking a formal position on the status of either Kashmir or Jammu.”

In response to a subsequent inquiry concerning President Donald Trump’s prior offer to facilitate peace between Pakistan and India during his initial term, Bruce stated, “I will refrain from commenting on that. I will not add anything further on that matter.”

“The president and secretary have already articulated their views and made their stances clear. I will not elaborate beyond their statements.”

Background

On Tuesday, a tragic incident occurred where more than 20 individuals lost their lives following an attack by gunmen targeting tourists in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The “Kashmir Resistance” group has claimed responsibility for the attack through a message on social media. Their message conveyed dissatisfaction with the reported settlement of over 85,000 “outsiders” in the area, which they claim is leading to a “demographic shift”.

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

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

Pakistan has since refuted the Indian government’s declaration, emphasizing that any attempt to halt or redirect Pakistan’s water supply would be deemed an “act of war” and would provoke a robust response across the full spectrum of national capabilities.

The National Security Committee convened and asserted that India must resist the temptation to exploit these unfortunate events for its own benefit, and must bear full responsibility for failing to ensure the security of the populace.

Decisions made include the closure of the Wagah Border, and the suspension of “all trade with India, encompassing trade to and from any third country via Pakistan.

Pakistan has also resolved to discontinue all visas issued to Indian citizens under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), effectively cancelling them with immediate effect.