United States of America is closely watching developments in Kashmir but has reiterated that they will not take a position regarding Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), according to a State Department spokesperson confirmed at a press briefing held Wednesday by State Department spokesperson.
Responding to questions regarding ongoing tensions and human rights concerns in Jammu and Kashmir, the spokesperson responded: “The U.S. does not take a stance on its boundaries or final status; instead we advocate peaceful resolution through direct talks between India and Pakistan.”
These statements come amid renewed concerns of human rights violations in IIOJK and an increase in international awareness due to recent political and military activity in the region. Human rights organizations as well as some international lawmakers have raised issues surrounding restrictions on civil liberties, communication blackouts, and detentions of local political leaders.
Washington has taken an impartial stance despite pressure from global advocacy groups, encouraging both New Delhi and Islamabad to enter into constructive discussions to reduce tensions and ensure regional stability.
The United States has long recognized Jammu and Kashmir as a disputed territory between India and Pakistan, encouraging bilateral dialogue. But recent geopolitical alignments and strategic partnerships, especially between the U.S. and India, have given rise to speculations of possible shifts in policy.
Maria Dalton, a senior South Asia analyst noted: The U.S. maintains an aim of striking a balance in its relations with both India and Pakistan; however, New Delhi often takes precedence. That being said, Washington continues to push for respect of human rights and democratic principles across all regions – including Jammu and Kashmir.”
Pakistan has repeatedly appealed to the international community – including the U.S. – to play an active role in resolving Kashmir according to United Nations resolutions. Meanwhile, India maintains that Jammu and Kashmir is part of India and views any recent measures as internal administrative matters.
As tensions remain high, the U.S. reiterates its priority for peace, stability and respect of human rights in the region; however, its longstanding policy of not intervening directly into territorial disputes between sovereign nations remains in place.