On February 14, following a suicide attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir that killed 40 soldiers, India vowed to flush out the terrorists responsible for the attack. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had tweeted, “We stand with India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security.”
India launched air strikes in Pakistan territory – for the first time since a war in 1971 – and a confrontation between Indian and Pakistani fighter jets over Kashmir took place.
On February 26, the U.S. Department of State released a press statement: Concern Regarding India-Pakistan Tensions
Press Statement
Secretary of State
Following Indian counter-terrorism actions on February 26, I spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs Swaraj to emphasize our close security partnership and shared goal of maintaining peace and security in the region. I also spoke to Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi to underscore the priority of de-escalating current tensions by avoiding military action, and the urgency of Pakistan taking meaningful action against terrorist groups operating on its soil. I expressed to both Ministers that we encourage India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, and avoid escalation at any cost. I also encouraged both Ministers to prioritize direct communication and avoid further military activity.
