WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI — As tensions between India and Pakistan intensify, the White House on Friday reaffirmed President Donald Trump’s interest in a swift de-escalation of the conflict.
Speaking to reporters, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “This is something that the Secretary of State and now our NSA, Marco Rubio, has been closely involved in. President Trump has made it clear that he wants to see this situation calm down as quickly as possible.” She added that while hostilities between the two nations have deep historical roots, the U.S. President maintains good relations with both Indian and Pakistani leadership.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to Leavitt, has been in continuous communication with leaders from both countries, aiming to reduce tensions and encourage dialogue.
On the ground, the security situation remained tense on Friday. In Punjab’s Ferozepur district, three civilians were reportedly injured when debris from a Pakistani drone fell onto a residential home. The day also saw drone sightings at over two dozen locations—ranging from Kashmir’s Baramulla to Gujarat’s Bhuj—triggering widespread alerts.
For the second consecutive night, border towns and cities across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan were plunged into darkness as precautionary blackouts were enforced. Sirens and public announcements urged residents to switch off lights and stay indoors amid the ongoing aerial threat.
India’s armed forces remained on high alert and have reportedly been successful in neutralizing incoming threats using advanced air defense systems. Officials have reiterated that the situation, though serious, is under control.
