'India will firmly counter any escalation': S Jaishankar speaks to US Secretary Marco Rubio after Pakistan drone attack

"Spoke with US @SecRubio  this evening. Deeply appreciate US commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism. Underlined India’s targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism. Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation," Jaishankar posted on X.

Rubio has expressed his support for a direct dialogue between the two nuclear-armed nations and called for an immediate de-escalation.

A statement released by US Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said: "Secretary Marco Rubio spoke today with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.  The Secretary emphasized the need for immediate de-escalation."

"He expressed U.S. support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged continued efforts to improve communications," the statement said.

"The Secretary reiterated his condolences for the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism," it said.

Pakistan on Thursday launched major drone and missile strikes on parts of Jammu, along with heavy shelling in Samba, Poonch, and other sectors along the Line of Control (LoC). India has shot down two Pakistani fighter jets, including one F-16, in a retaliatory action.

Jammu was targeted with missiles and drones in an enormous escalation. No loss of lives has been reported so far.

Besides Jammu, the city of Jaisalmer was also targeted.

However, India has been able to intercept most of the drones fired by Pakistan and has resorted to retaliatory action.