New Delhi: Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday spoke with United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to discuss the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and the broader regional security situation.
According to official sources, Secretary Hegseth reached out to Singh via telephone and expressed concern over the attack. The two leaders are believed to have exchanged views on the implications of the incident and the steps being taken in its aftermath. The conversation follows growing global concerns about Pakistan’s continued role as a haven for terrorist activities.
India has made it clear that it retains the right to respond to terror threats at a time and manner of its choosing. New Delhi is reportedly working to highlight Pakistan’s complicity in cross-border terrorism on international platforms.
This marks the second interaction between Singh and Hegseth this year. Their previous conversation took place in February when Rajnath Singh extended congratulations to Hegseth on his appointment as U.S. Defence Secretary.
Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has intensified diplomatic outreach, holding telephone conversations with seven non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. He also held a crucial discussion with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. In a social media post, Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to holding accountable all individuals involved in the Pahalgam attack—including the attackers, their supporters, and the masterminds.
U.S. State Department spokesperson Tommy Bruce confirmed that Secretary Rubio assured Jaishankar of Washington’s continued support for India in its counter-terrorism efforts.
India has vowed to pursue justice for the Pahalgam victims and strengthen international cooperation against terrorism, even as tensions with Pakistan remain elevated.