As tensions escalate between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan following a deadly militant assault in Kashmir, the United States has stepped forward urging both countries to pursue a "responsible solution" to the crisis.

The U.S. State Department confirmed on Sunday that Washington is in active communication with New Delhi and Islamabad at multiple levels, closely monitoring the volatile situation. Though American officials have publicly expressed solidarity with India — condemning the Pahalgam attack that killed over two dozen civilians — they have notably refrained from directly criticizing Pakistan, which India blames for sponsoring the assault. Pakistan has rejected the accusations, calling for a neutral investigation.

“This remains a rapidly evolving situation. We stand with India against terrorism and encourage all sides to seek a responsible way forward,” a State Department spokesperson stated.

The development underlines the shifting dynamics of U.S. foreign policy: India has become a vital ally in Washington’s broader strategy to counter China’s influence across Asia, while Pakistan's relevance has diminished post the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Regional analysts suggest that Islamabad may fear a diminished U.S. role in restraining Indian military action, especially at a time when Washington is preoccupied with crises in Ukraine and Gaza. Michael Kugelman of the Wilson Center noted, "The U.S. may not intervene swiftly this time, allowing India greater freedom to respond to the attack."

Former Pakistani ambassador Hussain Haqqani observed a similar trend, emphasizing, "This time, the U.S. appetite for crisis mediation between India and Pakistan appears very low."

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed severe retaliation, promising that those behind the Kashmir massacre will face retribution "beyond their imagination." Calls for military action are growing louder in India’s political circles.

Tensions have already spilled over into action: Pakistan has shut its airspace to Indian airlines, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and cross-border shelling has resumed after years of relative calm.

Responsibility for the Pahalgam attack was claimed by a little-known group, Kashmir Resistance, which Indian agencies allege is a front for Pakistan-backed terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.

As South Asia teeters on the edge of another dangerous chapter, Washington’s cautious approach may set the stage for a new, unpredictable reality in the region.