The US State Department has expressed support for the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan and encouraged both countries to maintain direct dialogue to ensure regional peace and stability.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas Pigott praised Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif for choosing the path of peace following days of heightened tensions, including drone and missile exchanges across the border.
“We welcome the ceasefire and commend both leaders for their strength and wisdom in de-escalating the situation,” Pigott said. He noted that the US continues to promote direct communication between New Delhi and Islamabad, without the involvement of any third party.
Indian government sources had earlier confirmed to PTI news agency that the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both nations agreed to halt all military actions across land, air, and sea starting May 10. This understanding came after India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ in response to the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives. Pakistan retaliated with attempted strikes on Indian military positions on May 8, 9, and 10.
When asked if Secretary of State Marco Rubio had received any assurances from Pakistani leaders about dismantling terror infrastructure, Pigott declined to share details of private diplomatic conversations but reiterated the US’s focus on the ceasefire and ongoing communication.
He also referred to former President Donald Trump’s social media post, calling the ceasefire a sign of leadership and diplomacy. “The President believes in peace. He’s a peacemaker and a dealmaker. That’s been demonstrated repeatedly,” Pigott said, adding that the US remains hopeful that calm will prevail.
On the possibility of US mediation, Pigott emphasised that Washington is not speculating but will continue to encourage direct engagement between India and Pakistan.
Regarding reports of nuclear radiation leaks in Pakistan, Pigott said he had no updates to offer at this time.
He concluded by reaffirming the US administration’s focus: “We want the ceasefire to hold and direct communication to continue. That’s where our efforts will stay.”
