US Backs India’s Right to Strike Back After Attack
After the Pahalgam terror attack, the US reaffirms support for India’s right to self-defense and calls for global action on terrorism.
US Reaffirms Support as India Weighs Retaliation for Pahalgam Terror Attack
In the wake of the harrowing terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where 26 lives were tragically lost, global condemnation is growing—and at the forefront stands the United States. In a powerful diplomatic gesture, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reached out to his Indian counterpart, Rajnath Singh, to convey heartfelt condolences and unflinching support.
The attack, which unfolded on April 22, marks one of the deadliest in the Kashmir Valley since 2019. The immediate aftermath saw an outpouring of grief, outrage, and a steely resolve from New Delhi. In his call, Hegseth didn’t mince words—underscoring the US government’s full backing of India’s right to self-defense and expressing solidarity against the scourge of terrorism.
Global Support Rises After Pahalgam Attack
India’s defense minister used the opportunity to shed light on what New Delhi views as the root cause: Pakistan’s longstanding and well-documented support for terrorist organizations. According to a statement released by the Raksha Mantri’s Office (RMO), Singh pointed to a pattern of training, arming, and financing terror groups—a strategy, he said, that has destabilized not only the region but international security at large.
“Pakistan has been exposed as a rogue state,” Singh told his American counterpart, urging the international community to take a stronger, united stance. He emphasized that turning a blind eye to such attacks is no longer an option, especially when innocent lives continue to be lost.
India Responds: Diplomatic Ties Downgraded, Treaties Suspended
In a sharp and calculated reaction, India has already taken significant diplomatic measures. Military attaches from Pakistan have been expelled, and the historic Indus Waters Treaty of 1960—a cornerstone of water-sharing agreements between the two nuclear neighbors—has been suspended. Additionally, India shut down the Attari land-transit post, effectively halting all remaining formal trade routes with Islamabad.
These measures reflect more than symbolic protest; they represent a decisive recalibration of India’s diplomatic posture. While these steps stop short of military retaliation, they indicate the gravity with which New Delhi views the situation and set the stage for possible future actions.
Modi Grants Military ‘Free Hand’ for Response
Behind closed doors at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, India’s top brass convened for a high-stakes meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Among those present: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. During this session, the Prime Minister granted the armed forces complete operational autonomy to chart a response—including the timing, targets, and tactics.
“It is our national resolve to deal a crushing blow to terrorism,” PM Modi declared, according to sources familiar with the meeting. The statement reflects a growing determination to act decisively—one that aligns with both domestic expectations and international support.
The US-India Strategic Bond: More Than Words
The swift response from Washington underscores a deepening India-US security partnership that has gained strength in recent years. From intelligence sharing to joint military drills, the relationship has matured beyond diplomacy into a robust defense alliance. By explicitly backing India’s right to retaliate, the US has reinforced its commitment to counterterrorism cooperation—one that transcends strategic convenience.
This isn’t the first time Washington has stood by India. In the aftermath of the 2019 Pulwama attack, the Trump administration also affirmed India’s right to self-defense. But today’s support carries added weight, given the shifting dynamics of global security and the heightened threat of cross-border terrorism.
A Turning Point for Global Counterterrorism?
The Pahalgam attack may represent more than a tragic loss—it could become a pivotal moment in redefining how the global community tackles state-sponsored terrorism. As India moves from mourning to mobilization, questions linger: Will other nations follow the US lead? Will Pakistan face tangible consequences for its alleged support of extremist networks?
Recent reports from think tanks like the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) suggest that international patience is wearing thin. “There is a growing consensus among democratic nations that terrorism—especially when abetted by the state—must be met with more than condemnation,” noted a CSIS analyst this week.
Conclusion: Unity in the Face of Terror
As India grieves and gears up for a potential counter-strike, the unwavering support from allies like the United States offers not just comfort, but a mandate for action. The Pahalgam tragedy has reignited global discussions on the costs of inaction and the urgency of confronting terrorism at its roots.
In a region long plagued by violence and volatile politics, a clear message is emerging: the world is watching, and this time, India won’t stand alone.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available statements and developments as of May 1, 2025. It aims to provide an informative overview and does not represent any official position or endorsement of military action.
source : Times Now