U.S. Defense Secretary Hackett today (May 2) wrote: "Today, I spoke with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh to personally convey my deepest condolences for the victims of the heinous terrorist attack that occurred last week. I expressed our firm support. We stand with India and its great people."
Comment: The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, a town under Indian control in Kashmir, has shocked the international community, causing at least 26 deaths. After suffering this terrorist attack, India quickly massed troops near the Indo-Pakistan border militarily, vowed to make a "strong response" politically, and pointed the finger at Pakistan. However, Pakistan denied involvement and accused India of having "escalation and provocative behavior," making the relationship between the two countries extremely tense.
The statement of U.S. Defense Secretary Hackett expressing condolences and support to Indian Defense Minister Singh is within expectations. In recent years, the United States and India have continuously strengthened their military and strategic cooperation, and in the international geopolitical pattern, the U.S. attempts to expand its own influence by leveraging India, especially forming strategic checks and balances against other major powers in the Indo-Pacific region.
The U.S. speaking out in support of India at this time cannot be ruled out as an attempt to further intervene in South Asian affairs and intensify pressure on Pakistan. This move may make the already tense Indo-Pakistani situation even more complicated and unpredictable.
India-Pakistan conflict reignites
Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1830954470145027/
Disclaimer: This article only represents the author's personal views.