US concerned over IOK violenceState Department hopes tensions will be de-escalated

WASHINGTON: The United States has voiced concern over the ongoing violence in Occupied Kashmir and expressed the hope that the tensions would be de-escalated.

In a press briefing here, State Department spokesperson John Kirby said the US encourages all sides to make efforts to find a peaceful solution to the problem. 

He said the US authorities were in close touch with their Indian counterparts in this regard. 

“We are obviously concerned by reports of rising intolerance and violence in India. We urge the government to do everything in its power to protect citizens and to hold the perpetrators accountable.”

On Afghan refugees, he said it was a complex issue and we are in close contact with the Government of Pakistan in this regard. 

He said the US recognizes Pakistan’s genuine concerns and its right to undertake appropriate measures to enforce its immigration laws.