Rubio shifts from diplomatic appeal to mediation in India-Pakistan crisis

There had been a noticeable shift in the recent statements of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the escalation between India and Pakistan.

On May 10, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in calls with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, he emphasised the need for both sides to find methods to de-escalate and re-establish proper communication to avoid miscalculation. He assured that the US will play the role of a mediator to facilitate effective communication between the two to avoid future escalations.

On May 9, the US Secretary of State engaged in two distinct calls, one with the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan, Ishaq Dar, and the Pakistani Army Chief, Asim Munir. In both conversations, he reiterated the need to establish dialogue between India and Pakistan to avoid escalation, which might spill into full-scale war. He also assured that the US is willing to contribute to fostering diplomatic talks between the two nations.

United States, most of the outreach involved engagement with political leaders in the country; however, there is a noticeable shift in the level of engagement. Previously, Secretary Rubio urged de-escalation and addressing support for terrorist groups now. The subsequent engagement included direct communication with military leadership, offering to play as a mediator to foster effective talks, i.e. playing an active role.