New Delhi: With tensions escalating between India and Pakistan following India’s May 7 missile strikes on terror camps across the border, key global powers and regional heavyweights have begun diplomatic engagement to prevent further conflict. Notably, Saudi Arabia and Iran—two rival West Asian powers—have taken the lead, sending senior diplomats to India to push for de-escalation.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel Aljubeir, made an unannounced visit to New Delhi on Thursday and held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The visit is significant, given Riyadh’s historic influence over Pakistan. Jaishankar shared India’s perspective on “firmly countering terrorism” and emphasized New Delhi’s restrained but resolute response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Prime Minister Modi was in Saudi Arabia when the April 22 attack took place.
Iran offers to mediate
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also arrived in New Delhi around midnight for a scheduled visit. Jaishankar told Araghchi that India’s strikes were “targeted and measured” and not intended to escalate tensions, but warned of a “very firm response” if attacked. Araghchi, who offered to mediate, also met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
Meanwhile, the United States has called for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with both Jaishankar and Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif. According to the State Department, Rubio urged “immediate de-escalation” and conveyed condolences for civilian casualties. He also asked Pakistan to take steps against terror groups. US President Donald Trump reiterated support for peace, offering to help mediate if needed.
EU urges mutual restraint
The European Union also weighed in, unequivocally condemning the Pahalgam attack and calling on both countries to show restraint. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said every country has the right to defend its citizens from terror but urged both sides to protect civilian lives and resume dialogue.
India’s diplomatic outreach appears to have struck a chord. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted that many global leaders recognise the “barbaric nature” of the Pahalgam attack and India’s “measured” response. He said this international understanding explains the balanced reactions seen so far. This time, unlike previous flare-ups, it’s the Gulf countries—not the West—who are leading diplomatic efforts.
