India’s actions in occupied Kashmir must be addressed before further escalation: US Senator

ISLAMABAD: US Senator Lindsey Graham spoke to Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Thursday about India’s move to strip occupied Kashmir of its special status and the deteriorating tensions in the disputed valley.

“Just spoke with the Pakistani Foreign Minister about the growing crisis in Kashmir. India’s decision to change the status quo must be addressed before it leads to a further escalation of tensions,” Graham posted on Twitter.

The senator expressed hope the US government would play its role in helping the two neighbours to find a way to deescalate the crisis.

“Hope the Trump Administration will provide assistance to both Pakistan and India to find a way to deescalate the current crisis. The last thing the region and the world needs is further military confrontations between India and Pakistan over Kashmir.”

The US Department of State, in a press release earlier, said it would continue to support direct dialogue between India and Pakistan on Kashmir and other issues of concern. 

"[We are] closely following India's legislation regarding the new territorial status and governance of Jammu and Kashmir. We note the broader implications of these developments, including the potential for increased instability in the region," the press release stated. 

"The US calls for calm and restraint by all parties. We continue to be concerned by reports of detentions and the continued restrictions on the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

"We urge respect for individual rights, compliance with legal procedures, and inclusive dialogue with those affected.

"We call on all parties to maintain peace and stability along the LoC, including taking firm and resolute steps to combat cross-border terrorism," it added.