US Reiterates Strong Support to India in Fight Against Terror 2025

US Reiterates Strong Support to India in Fight Against Terror; Also Stresses Importance of Ties with Pakistan for IS-KP Threat

In a recent development reflecting the United States’ nuanced diplomatic approach in South Asia, Washington has reaffirmed its unwavering support to India in its fight against terrorism. However, it has also underlined the importance of maintaining strong ties with Pakistan, especially due to its military’s role in countering Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP), a terrorist group posing a grave regional and global threat.

US Backs India’s Anti-Terror Efforts

Addressing a press briefing on Tuesday, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that the United States remains firmly committed to its strategic partnership with India. She shared that Christopher Landau, the Deputy Secretary of State, recently held a meeting with an Indian parliamentary delegation, led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. This high-level engagement was part of India’s broader diplomatic efforts following Operation Sindoor.

Bruce said, “The Deputy Secretary reaffirmed our strong support to India in its fight against terrorism and our growing strategic partnership with the country.” This reiteration from the US comes at a time when India continues to advocate globally against cross-border terrorism, particularly from groups operating in Pakistan.

General Kurilla: Pakistan a ‘Valuable Partner’ Against IS-KP

In parallel developments, General Michael Kurilla, the head of US Central Command, addressed the House Armed Services Committee and spoke in depth about the evolving threat posed by ISIS-Khorasan and the regional dynamics shaping counter-terrorism strategies.

General Kurilla acknowledged Pakistan’s critical contributions in disrupting IS-KP’s networks. He specifically mentioned Pakistan’s role in the capture and extradition of Mohammad Sharifullah, one of the masterminds behind the horrific suicide bombing at Abbey Gate during the 2021 Kabul airport evacuation. That attack killed 13 American soldiers and approximately 160 Afghan civilians.

Kurilla stated, “Pakistan’s cooperation, particularly under the leadership of Army Chief General Asim Munir, has proved to be valuable in curbing ISIS-Khorasan’s regional operations. Their actions have international implications, especially as security threats inside Afghanistan continue to escalate.”

US Balancing Act: India and Pakistan Both Important

The US General made it clear that Washington’s engagement with Pakistan is not at odds with its close relationship with India. He argued that fostering strong ties with both nations is essential to manage the volatile security situation in the region.

“This isn’t a zero-sum game,” Kurilla noted. “We must see the relationships for the advantages they bring. Our ties with Pakistan, especially in the counter-terrorism domain, are critical, just as our strategic relationship with India is indispensable.”

Discussions with Pakistan: Terrorism and Bilateral Ties

Tammy Bruce also informed that a Pakistani parliamentary team led by former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met with US officials, including Under Secretary for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, during their visit to Washington.

The discussions reportedly covered a range of bilateral issues, with counterterrorism cooperation featuring prominently. When asked whether the US had received any firm assurances from Pakistan regarding action against terrorist networks on its soil, Bruce declined to reveal specifics. “We don’t discuss the confidential aspects of such conversations in public,” she said.

US Comments on India-Pakistan Tensions and Mediation

On being questioned about former President Donald Trump’s earlier offer to mediate between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir issue, Bruce responded cautiously. She neither confirmed nor denied any ongoing efforts in this direction but remarked, “It would be a promising development if progress could be made in resolving such a longstanding conflict.”

However, the Indian government has consistently dismissed any talk of third-party mediation. Reaffirming this position, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal recently reiterated that all matters related to Jammu and Kashmir are strictly bilateral in nature.

“Our position has always been clear,” Jaiswal said. “Issues concerning the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are to be resolved bilaterally between India and Pakistan. The only pending issue is the return of territories illegally occupied by Pakistan.”

Strategic Nuance in a Complicated Neighborhood

This recent series of diplomatic engagements and public statements underscores the complex balancing act the United States must perform in South Asia. While India remains a key strategic partner and a frontline state in the global fight against terrorism, Pakistan’s geographic location and its military capabilities give it a crucial role in combating terror groups like IS-KP.

For New Delhi, Washington’s continued vocal support against terrorism, especially state-sponsored groups operating across the border, is a significant reassurance. At the same time, India remains cautious about US overtures to Pakistan, particularly if those are not followed by concrete actions on terror.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the United States is striving to walk a tightrope in the region — one that supports India’s legitimate concerns while also leveraging Pakistan’s counter-terror assets for broader security objectives.

This approach may not always be viewed favorably in Delhi, but for now, the Biden administration appears committed to maintaining ties with both South Asian nuclear neighbors — not just out of diplomacy, but out of necessity.

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