In a high-stakes diplomatic move, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a critical phone call with Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir, urging restraint and de-escalation. This conversation followed Pakistan’s launch of a significant military offensive against India, dubbed Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, targeting key Indian military assets.
Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos: A Bold Military Statement
Pakistan confirmed that it struck several Indian military installations, including a BrahMos missile storage site near Beas and airbases in Pathankot and Udhampur. According to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the strikes were a direct response to earlier Indian missile attacks, which reportedly targeted three Pakistani airbases, including Nur Khan near Islamabad.
US Calls for Peace Amid Escalation
During the call, US Secretary Rubio emphasized the importance of diplomatic dialogue to prevent further loss of life. He also offered US support to facilitate peace talks between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Rubio further reached out to Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to negotiate if India halts its aggression.
A Regional Crisis with Global Attention
The escalation has already resulted in over 50 casualties, with the Line of Control seeing continuous fire exchanges. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has convened Pakistan’s National Command Authority, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
A Critical Moment for South Asia
With both nations at the brink, Secretary Rubio’s call with Pakistani Army Chief underscores the urgent need for international mediation. The world watches closely, hoping diplomacy can prevail over destruction.