Jaishankar, Rubio discuss India-Pak tensions as US, Saudi and China call for de-escalation

In a bid to maintain balance, the US, China, and Saudi Arabia are calling for de-escalation in the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan. Tensions between the two nuclear-powered nations witnessed an upward swing after the Pahalgam terror attack, in which Pakistani terror groups had their hands.

In light of this, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dialled External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, calling for de-escalation of the ongoing conflict. Both sides need to speak to each other and find ways to de-escalate to avoid miscommunication, Rubio reportedly told Jaishankar. The US is ready to help it make happen, Rubio reportedly said.

Earlier today, the American diplomat held a phone call with Pakistan army chief Asif Munir. The call came after another fiery night, with missiles and drones being fired from both sides, targeting air bases. In his post on X, the EAM said that he told his American counterpart that “India’s approach has always been measured and responsible, assuring that it will continue to remain the same.

China, Saudi call for de-escalation

As the tensions escalate, China also issued a statement in which it urged both India and Pakistan to avoid the escalation of the conflict. “We strongly call on both India and Pakistan to give priority to peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, return to the track of political settlement through peaceful means and avoid taking actions that further escalate tensions,” a statement by a foreign ministry spokesperson said.

A day after Saudi Arabia’s deputy foreign minister visited Pakistan following an unannounced visit to India, Saudi foreign minister Faisal Bin Farhan spoke on the telephone to Dar to discuss ways to reduce tensions. During his call, the Saudi foreign minister expressed condolences over the loss of lives and “appreciated Pakistan’s measured and restrained response”, stated a readout from Pakistan’s foreign ministry. Meanwhile, Dar apprised Faisal bin Farhan of the situation in the region.

Saudi deputy foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir made unscheduled visits to India and Pakistan during May 8-9 as part of the kingdom’s “efforts towards de-escalation, ending ongoing military confrontations, and resolving all disputes through dialogue and diplomatic channels”.

There were calls for de-escalation from G7 nations as well. As the world looks closely, the developments in the Indian subcontinent, it will be interesting to see which way the conflict will be heading.