President Donald Trump remarked on Wednesday (May 7) that the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, both important partners of the US, have escalated into a "tit-for-tat" exchange. He expressed hope that the two nuclear-armed neighbors would avoid further conflict. Trump added that he knew both nations "very well" and would offer assistance if needed, calling the situation a "shame."

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with his Saudi Arabian counterpart about efforts to de-escalate the situation, according to the State Department. The rising tensions were sparked by India’s missile strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, followed by Pakistan's claims of shooting down Indian aircraft and vowing retaliation. This clash is the most intense in over two decades. India’s missile strikes were reportedly aimed at "terrorist infrastructure," in retaliation for an April 22 attack by Islamist militants that killed 26 people in India-administered Kashmir, an attack India blamed on Pakistan. Pakistan denied the accusations and called for a neutral probe.

While India is a key ally in the US's strategy to counter China, Pakistan remains an important partner despite its reduced significance following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Recently, Washington has been in contact with both nations. Rubio held discussions with both countries following the latest strikes. Analysts suggest that, due to its involvement in Ukraine and Gaza, the US may choose not to intervene early in the tensions between India and Pakistan, leaving them to manage the situation on their own for now.