In the midst of rising hostilities between India and Pakistan, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Thursday. The call, confirmed by the US State Department, was aimed at addressing the recent surge in cross-border attacks and to urge restraint on both sides. Secretary Rubio emphasised the urgent need for de-escalation and voiced support for direct dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad to resolve tensions through diplomatic means.

The Secretary also conveyed his condolences for the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which has drawn international condemnation. Rubio reaffirmed the United States' commitment to cooperate with India in the global fight against terrorism. “We stand with the people of India in this moment of grief and remain united in our resolve to combat extremist violence,” the Secretary stated.

Heavy Cross-Border Shelling Intensifies Tensions

The call came hours after Pakistan launched a barrage of missiles and drones targeting several Indian cities on Thursday evening. Border areas, including RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar, witnessed intense shelling. According to Indian defence officials, eight missiles were launched towards these areas but were successfully intercepted by India's Air Defence Units, preventing any casualties or damage.

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Broader Attack Foiled By Indian Defences

A similar attack was attempted by Pakistan during the night of May 7-8, targeting strategic military locations across Northern and Western India, including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, and Bhuj. The assault, involving drones and cruise missiles, was effectively neutralised by India’s Integrated Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Grid and advanced air defence mechanisms.

India Retaliates With Precision Strikes

In a swift counteroffensive, the Indian Armed Forces targeted multiple Pakistani military installations, including key air defence radar systems. Notably, an air defence site in Lahore was reported to have been successfully neutralised, the Indian Ministry of Defence confirmed in a statement. The strikes were described as “measured yet decisive,” aimed at degrading Pakistan’s military capabilities while avoiding civilian casualties.

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