Srinagar, August 20, 2026: U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described Jammu and Kashmir as an “important part of India” during his first visit to the Union Territory, a remark that has triggered a diplomatic reaction from Pakistan.
Gor made the comments on Wednesday, August 19, after meeting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar. He also praised the region’s beauty and indicated that the United States may reconsider its travel advisory for Jammu and Kashmir as security conditions improve.
The statement drew a strong response from Islamabad. Pakistan summoned U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker and lodged a formal diplomatic protest, arguing that Gor’s remarks contradicted what Pakistan considers the established U.S. position on the Kashmir dispute.
The comments are significant because Washington has historically avoided taking a definitive position on the sovereignty of Jammu and Kashmir while encouraging India and Pakistan to address their differences through dialogue. U.S. State Department statements in 2025 continued to emphasize direct communication between the two countries.
Gor’s visit comes amid efforts to strengthen India-U.S. relations and renewed international attention on security and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks are likely to remain a subject of diplomatic discussion between Washington, New Delhi and Islamabad in the days ahead.
