Washington: Amid tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama attack, the Pentagon on Wednesday urged the two neighbours countries to avoid further military action.
After Pulwama attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed the Indian Air Force carried out multiple aerial strikes at terror launch pads at various places in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.
There has been an aerial engagement between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday in which New Delhi said it shot down a Pakistan fighter jet but lost one of its MiG-21s.
In the wake of these incidents, the Pentagon in its statement said: “Acting Secretary Shanahan’s focus is on de-escalating tensions and urging both of the nations to avoid further military action.”
Canada also urged both the nations to avoid military escalation. Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that “Canada is gravely concerned about rising tensions between India and Pakistan. We urge both sides to exercise maximum restraint and avoid any further military escalation.”
She further added that “Dialogue between India and Pakistan is needed to identify a durable diplomatic solution and maintain peace and security in the region. We are committed to working with India, Pakistan and our international partners in this effort.”