U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a critical call with Pakistan's Army Chief General Asim Munir on Friday, emphasizing the urgent need to reduce military tensions between Pakistan and India. The conversation followed a recent escalation in cross-border clashes, described as the region's worst in nearly three decades.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson confirmed Rubio urged both sides to prioritize dialogue, offering Washington's support to facilitate constructive negotiations. This comes amid reports that Pakistan launched a military operation early Saturday targeting Indian bases, including a missile storage site in northern India.
Analysts warn that renewed hostilities risk destabilizing South Asia's fragile security environment. Rubio's intervention highlights growing international concern over the economic and humanitarian consequences of prolonged conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Pakistan and India have not yet publicly commented on the U.S. proposal for mediated talks. Observers note that regional stability remains critical for global markets, particularly in energy and technology sectors with significant ties to South Asia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com