Kathrine Frich
Vance made it clear that military or direct mediation efforts are off the table.
Vance made it clear that military or direct mediation efforts are off the table.
Tensions escalate between India and Pakistan following a deadly exchange of missile and drone attacks, U.S. Vice President JD Vance has made headlines by stating that the conflict is “none of our business.”
In a Fox News interview, Vance doubled down on a non-interventionist stance that aligns with the Trump administration’s broader “America First” foreign policy.
While the U.S. will pursue de-escalation through diplomacy, Vance made it clear that military or direct mediation efforts are off the table. Here’s what we know so far:
Vance Declares: “None of Our Business”
In his Fox News appearance, Vance called the conflict between India and Pakistan “fundamentally none of our business.”
He said that while the U.S. may encourage peace, it has no authority to compel either nuclear-armed nation to stand down.
U.S. Will Rely on Diplomacy, Not Force
Vance made it clear the U.S. would only act through diplomatic channels.
“We’re not going to get involved in the middle of a war,” he said, underlining that American influence is limited when neither side is willing to disarm.
Trump Doctrine Lives On in Foreign Policy
The stance mirrors the Trump administration’s approach to Ukraine and other global flashpoints: avoid entanglements, limit U.S. involvement, and place the onus on regional actors.
Vance’s comments reaffirm a hands-off strategy long favoured by his administration.
Rubio and Allies Push for Calm
While Vance took a hardline stance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio maintained active diplomatic outreach.
He held calls with leaders in both India and Pakistan, urging immediate de-escalation.
Meanwhile, Iran and Saudi Arabia also entered the fray, sending foreign ministers to Delhi.
Deadly Strikes: 31 Killed in Indian Missile Attack
India launched missile strikes on Pakistani territory early Wednesday, killing 31 people.
Officials in New Delhi claim the operation targeted “terrorist infrastructure.” Pakistan, however, denied the presence of militant groups in the affected areas.
Pakistan Responds with Drone and Missile Strikes
Pakistan retaliated Thursday with a wave of missile and drone attacks, which India said it had successfully intercepted.
The tit-for-tat exchange marks one of the most dangerous escalations in recent years between the two nuclear rivals.
Vance Urges India to Show Restraint
While backing India’s right to respond to terrorism, Vance warned New Delhi not to let military action spiral into a broader regional war.
His remarks followed a recent visit to India, where he acknowledged India’s security concerns but advised caution.
The Kashmir Flashpoint Remains Volatile
At the heart of the current escalation is a terrorist attack in Kashmir, which India blames on groups operating from Pakistani territory.
Vance said the U.S. hopes Pakistan “cooperates” in dealing with militants but stopped short of proposing any joint action.