By News Desk 
Following the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, India has received widespread international backing. Nations including the United States and Russia have strongly condemned the violence, while diplomatic pressure on Pakistan is mounting. In a recent high-level conversation, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s unwavering support for India’s right to self-defense during a phone call with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh.
Taking to social media, Rajnath Singh shared, “I spoke with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and conveyed our sorrow over the loss of innocent lives in the brutal Pahalgam terror attack. Secretary Hegseth expressed America’s solidarity with India and assured full support in our fight against terrorism.”
He further stated that he had briefed the US on Pakistan’s longstanding role in promoting, sheltering, and financing terrorism, and stressed the need for the global community to speak out unequivocally against such acts.
US Urges Restraint but Stands Firm with India
Prior to this, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had held separate talks with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani PM Shahbaz Sharif, urging both sides to exercise restraint. However, the US clarified its position, stating that while diplomatic de-escalation is essential, India’s counter-terrorism measures are fully justified.
In an official release, the US State Department emphasized its support for India’s security efforts and called on Pakistan to cooperate fully in the investigation. The Department also recognized the need to bring the perpetrators to justice and hold accountable those who provide them with aid.
Rising India-Pakistan Tensions
As tensions rise, Pakistan is reportedly on high alert, fearing retaliatory action from India. It has begun reaching out to its allies, including China, which has publicly backed Pakistan amid the standoff. Analysts believe Islamabad is attempting to garner international sympathy and prevent diplomatic isolation.
However, with most major powers siding with India and emphasizing the need to combat terrorism in all its forms, global sentiment appears to be leaning strongly against terrorism and state-sponsored violence.