WASHINGTON: Amid heightened tensions in South Asia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reached out to Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, urging both India and Pakistan to pursue immediate de-escalation, according to a spokesperson from the US Department of State.
Rubio offered US support in facilitating dialogue between the two nuclear-armed nations to avoid further conflict. The outreach comes as Pakistan confirmed launching Operation Bunyan Marsoos (Iron Wall) on Saturday, targeting multiple Indian military sites, including missile depots and key air bases.
Meanwhile, the White House confirmed it is in constant communication with both governments. Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt emphasized that President Donald Trump wants a rapid resolution:
“The President has expressed he wants to see this de-escalate as quickly as possible… He has good relationships with the leaders of both countries.”
The recent escalation follows Indian missile strikes on three Pakistani air bases, which Islamabad responded to by targeting seven Indian military installations — among them Pathankot, Udhampur, and Gujarat air bases, as well as BrahMos missile storage sites.
The US has reiterated its willingness to help mediate peace efforts, stressing the global stakes of stability in the region.
