4 hours ago
Last Updated:May 01, 2025, 23:33 IST
By bypassing Ishaq Dar and speaking directly with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signalled his disapproval of the foreign minister's approach
Rubio's direct communication with Sharif aims to ensure a more constructive dialogue at the highest level, moving away from inflammatory rhetoric, said sources. File pic/Reuters
The United States disapproved of Pakistani foreign minister Ishaq Dar’s statement on April 24, in which he referred to the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack as “freedom fighters", the intelligence assessment shared on Marco Rubio’s phone call and accessed by CNN-News18 shows.
Indian intelligence sources indicate that this statement was perceived as inflammatory and dismissive of India’s claims about the involvement of Pakistan-based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba. The US seeks to distance itself from such rhetoric, which undermines its call for accountability and de-escalation.
By bypassing Dar and speaking directly with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, US Secretary of State Rubio signalled his disapproval of the foreign minister’s approach, which is seen as calculated. Rubio’s direct communication with Sharif aims to ensure a more constructive dialogue at the highest level, moving away from inflammatory rhetoric, said sources.
The US State Department highlighted the need for Pakistan’s cooperation in investigating the April 22 attack. Engaging Sharif, the head of the government, demonstrates the gravity of the situation, sources said.
This contrasts with Rubio’s earlier call with Dar on April 7, which focused on routine counterterrorism cooperation and trade issues.
Following the Pahalgam attack, the US prioritised high-level engagement to address escalating tensions. Rubio’s parallel calls with Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar and Sharif emphasised solidarity with India against terrorism while urging restraint from Pakistan, said sources.
Rubio’s decision, according to the sources, reflects a calculated diplomatic strategy to sideline figures perceived as obstructive, such as Dar.
Location : First Published:News world Rubio's Call To Sharif Indicates Pakistan Losing Credibility: Intel Sources | Exclusive
