Context:

Vice President Vance declared that the conflict between India and Pakistan is 'none of our business' and emphasized the U.S. stance of non-involvement, while encouraging de-escalation through diplomatic means. The tension between the two nations has intensified, marked by drone and projectile exchanges, following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India attributes to Pakistani military proxies. Despite past U.S. interventions to mitigate such conflicts, Vance's comments suggest a shift towards a more hands-off approach, potentially emboldening both nations. Critics express concern over the lack of an external mediator as India and Pakistan, both nuclear powers, are in a precariously unstable situation. Meanwhile, India is reportedly suppressing dissent and restricting media and social media accounts amid the ongoing conflict, further complicating the situation in the region.

Dive Deeper:

• Vice President Vance stated on Fox News that the U.S. should not involve itself in the India-Pakistan conflict, urging for de-escalation through diplomatic efforts rather than direct intervention, reflecting a shift in U.S. foreign policy approach.

• The recent escalation in hostilities between India and Pakistan involved the exchange of drones and projectiles across the border following an attack in Kashmir which India claims was orchestrated by Pakistani military proxies, a claim Pakistan denies.

• During previous India-Pakistan conflicts, the U.S. played a significant role in de-escalating tensions, but Vance's comments indicate a more passive role, which analysts warn could lead to further escalation without an external mediator.

• The conflict is centered on the disputed Kashmir region, which has seen decades of tension, and current events highlight the instability between the two nuclear-armed nations, with concerns over the potential for nuclear conflict.

• India is reportedly cracking down on critics and media, with restrictions on social media and news organizations, claiming executive orders to block accounts which include prominent journalists and independent news sites, further raising human rights concerns amid the conflict.