'US leading diplomatic efforts to deescalate deadly Indo-Pak confrontation'

Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif revealed Thursday that the United States is leading de-escalation efforts and Gulf nations are actively involved in diplomatic initiatives to ease tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan.

Around 1 a.m. Wednesday morning, India launched "Operation Sindoor" with airstrikes inside Pakistan, claiming retaliation for a militant attack in Pahalgam. In response, it shot down Indian jets and drones.

The international reaction to the military exchanges over the past two days has focused on preventing escalation. The United Nations warned that the world "cannot afford" a military conflict between the two nuclear powers.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri expressed pessimism about a diplomatic solution, stating Thursday that past experience with Pakistan "doesn't give confidence".

Meanwhile, Asif said "hardly any space left to de-escalate" remains as the conflict is "entering a blind alley."

The global West

The United States said it is monitoring the situation and urged both countries to maintain open communication channels.

Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Adviser, spoke with both Indian and Pakistani national security advisers in an effort to prevent further escalation.

According to Asif, the U.S. is now leading international de-escalation efforts between India and Pakistan.

The European Union has called on India and Pakistan "to exercise restraint, to de-escalate tensions and desist from further attacks to safeguard civilian lives on both sides."

The bloc stated it is monitoring "with great concern the growing tensions in the region and the ensuing consequences, including the possible loss of more lives".

The UK expressed serious concern and offered to support dialogue, while France warned against escalation.

Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed in an interview with Turkey's TRT World that Pakistan's NSA, Lt. Gen. Asim Malik, and India's NSA Ajit Doval held direct contact amid the crisis.

Asia and Middle East

Iran, Malaysia, and Turkey have all called for restraint amid rising tensions. Tehran has signaled its willingness to use its diplomatic channels in both capitals to promote dialogue.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed support for Pakistan's call for an independent investigation into the Pahalgam attack and indicated openness to playing a constructive role.

Ankara has backed Pakistan's request for an investigation into the April 22 attack while cautioning that India's strikes risk triggering a wider conflict.

Qatar and the UAE have advocated for diplomatic solutions, with Gulf nations now actively involved in de-escalation efforts, according to Pakistan's Defense Minister.

Global intervention required?

India has further escalated tensions by reportedly launching drone attacks into Pakistani territory. According to Pakistani officials, approximately 25 drones, including Israeli-made UAVs, entered Pakistani airspace and targeted multiple locations, including major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.

A damaged portion of an administration block at the Government Health and Education complex, after it was hit by an Indian strike, in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan May 7, 2025. Reuters

The situation is rapidly intensifying. Without decisive international intervention, this conflict risks escalation, potentially leading to significant consequences for both nations and raising concerns about regional and global stability.