Amidst escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti urged India to take a leading role in de-escalation, emphasizing the importance of soft power over military might.
Mufti highlighted the shifting international landscape, noting that while initial U.S. statements suggested limited intervention, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has now engaged with the Pakistani Army Chief, calling for de-escalation. She argued against relying on fluctuating international support, stating, “India as the world’s largest democracy and now as an emerging power/ the most populous nation–with a rapidly growing economy ranked third globally must not rely on inconsistent international support.”
She advocated for India to “embrace its leadership role in the subcontinent and take the first step to de-escalate,” asserting that “This is the moment for India to stand tall and demonstrate that its true strength lies in its soft power and commitment to peace, not in nukes.”
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed his discussion with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The U.S. Department of State reported that Rubio stressed the necessity for India and Pakistan to “identify methods to de-escalate and re-establish direct communication to avoid miscalculation.” He also offered “US support in facilitating productive discussions to avert future disputes,” following his prior conversation with Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir.
In New Delhi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh confirmed during a press briefing that the Pakistan Army is deploying troops to forward areas. Singh stated that while India has effectively countered all hostile actions with proportionate responses, it remains committed to de-escalation, contingent on Pakistan’s reciprocal restraint.
