India-Pakistan: US Secy of State Rubio Dials Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir

New Delhi: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held an urgent call with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, after Pakistan launched a series of ballistic missiles at India, including one aimed at the national capital, New Delhi. 

According to State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce Rubio urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate and offered US assistance in talks.

“Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir earlier today. He continued to urge both parties to find ways to deescalate and offered U.S. assistance in starting constructive talks in order to avoid future conflicts," Bruce said in a statement.

According to diplomatic sources, the missile launches occurred shortly after the IMF executive board gave the green light for the immediate disbursement of $1 billion under Pakistan’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF). 

The approval had faced significant resistance from India, which warned the global lender that Pakistan might redirect the funds to support cross-border terrorism and military operations.

Despite India’s objections, the bailout proceeded. Soon afterward, Pakistan intensified its military activities against India, raising alarms in global diplomatic circles.

Why India abstained?

India abstained from the recent IMF vote on approving a loan to Pakistan not due to a lack of opposition, but because IMF rules do not permit a formal ‘no’ vote.

By abstaining, India conveyed its strong dissent within the constraints of the IMF’s voting system and used the opportunity to formally record its objections. India’s key objections included.

India questioned the effectiveness of ongoing IMF assistance, noting that Pakistan has received support in 28 of the past 35 years including four programs in just the last five without meaningful or lasting reform.

India strongly highlighted the Pakistani military’s continued dominance in economic affairs, which undermines transparency, civilian oversight, and sustainable reform.

India firmly opposed providing funds to a country that continues to sponsor cross-border terrorism, warning that such support carries reputation risks for global institutions and undermines international norms.