U.S. Senator JD Vance has sparked significant debate with his recent comments urging the United States to remain neutral and uninvolved in rising tensions between India and Pakistan, following a reported but failed attempt by Pakistan-based operatives to target military establishments in Jammu, Pathankot, and other Indian cities.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Senator Vance said, “This is a regional conflict. While we value our partnerships in South Asia, this is none of our business, and the United States should not intervene.”
The senator, known for his "America First" foreign policy stance, made the remarks amid growing concerns over a potential escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Indian authorities have claimed they foiled a coordinated attack attempt by Pakistan-based groups targeting strategic locations, though no major damage or casualties were reported.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the attempted attacks, calling them “an act of aggression” and vowing to take all necessary measures to safeguard national security. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Office has denied any involvement, dismissing India’s allegations as “baseless and provocative.”
Senator Vance’s comments have drawn mixed reactions in Washington. While some lawmakers backed his non-interventionist approach, others warned that the U.S. must closely monitor the situation to ensure it does not spiral into a broader conflict affecting regional and global stability.
India and Pakistan have fought three wars since gaining independence in 1947, and border skirmishes are not uncommon, particularly in the disputed Kashmir region.
The White House has yet to issue an official statement on Vance’s remarks or the situation unfolding in South Asia.
