NEW YORK, May 2: In the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam that took 26 innocent lives, U.S. Vice President JD Vance has called for calm and cooperation between India and Pakistan, urging both nations to avoid escalating tensions and to unite in confronting terrorism.
Speaking in a heartfelt interview with Fox News, Vance—who was in India with his family during the time of the attack—expressed deep concern for the region and hope for a constructive path forward.
“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families,” Vance said. “This was a horrific act of terror, and our thoughts are with those mourning this unimaginable loss.”
The April 22 attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a known front for Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba, has shaken the region and rekindled fears of rising hostilities between India and Pakistan—both nuclear powers with a tense history.
“We’re obviously concerned any time we see tensions flare between two nations with such capabilities,” Vance admitted. “But we’re in close contact with both India and Pakistan. Our hope is that India responds in a way that avoids broader conflict, and that Pakistan plays its part in bringing those responsible to justice—especially when these militants sometimes operate from within their borders.”
The Vice President emphasized that cooperation—not confrontation—is the need of the hour. “This isn’t just about diplomacy,” he said. “It’s about ensuring more lives aren’t lost to senseless violence.”
Vance had earlier taken to social media to condemn the attack and offer solidarity with India, a gesture that resonated with many in both countries.
India has since responded with a strong diplomatic stance—downgrading ties with Pakistan, suspending the historic Indus Water Treaty, and closing the Attari border post. While emotions run high, voices like Vance’s remind the world of the human cost of conflict and the need for unity against terrorism.
As the world watches, the hope remains that out of tragedy, cooperation and understanding can prevail.
