Context:

Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif expressed openness to further U.S. mediation to resolve tensions with India, following India's airstrikes on Pakistani territory in response to a terrorist attack in Kashmir. These strikes resulted in the death of at least 20 people, and Pakistan has claimed it retaliated by shooting down several Indian aircraft and drones. Despite the escalation, Asif emphasized restraint, stating Pakistan would avoid further military action if India refrained from additional attacks and agreed to an independent investigation. The involvement of U.S. officials, including President Trump's call for a swift resolution, has been welcomed by Pakistan as a means to de-escalate the situation. Both countries' nuclear capabilities pose a significant concern internationally, though Asif noted that they serve as a deterrent against further escalation, despite the underlying risks remaining present.

Dive Deeper:

• India conducted airstrikes on nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, claiming these were in response to a terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed 26 people, predominantly Hindus. Pakistan reported 20 casualties from these strikes and has dismissed claims connecting these sites to terrorist groups.

• Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif stated that the country's military had successfully responded by downing five Indian planes and two drones, as well as using electronic warfare to thwart further Indian missile launches and force emergency landings.

• While Pakistan reserves the right to retaliate, Asif indicated the country’s preference for de-escalation, contingent upon India refraining from further aggressive actions and agreeing to an independent investigation into the incidents.

• U.S. President Trump and American diplomatic efforts have been positively received by Pakistan, with hopes that continued U.S. involvement could stabilize the region and prevent further conflict.

• India has accused the attackers of having 'cross-border linkages', while Pakistan has denied these allegations and called for an international investigation to ascertain the truth.

• Amid rising tensions, both countries' possession of nuclear weapons has heightened international concern, though Asif suggested these capabilities have served as a stabilizing factor to prevent the situation from escalating further.

• Tulsi Gabbard, the U.S. Director of National Intelligence, has maintained frequent communication with Indian officials to help manage and potentially defuse the conflict in the region.