Niagara, Canada / New Delhi: United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday described the recent Red Fort car blast in Delhi as “clearly a terrorist attack,” while commending Indian authorities for their measured and professional handling of the investigation.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Niagara, Canada, Rubio said the blast, which killed several people and injured many others, involved a vehicle loaded with high-grade explosives. “The Indians need to be commended. They’ve been very professional, cautious, and thorough in the way they’re investigating this,” he said. “It clearly was a terrorist attack — a car filled with explosive material that detonated and took many lives.”
US Offers Support, Praises India’s Capability
Rubio revealed that he had spoken with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding the incident and expressed his condolences for the victims. The two leaders also discussed broader security concerns and bilateral relations.
While the US has extended an offer of assistance, Rubio noted that India is fully capable of managing the probe independently. “We’ve offered to help, but I think India doesn’t need it. Their agencies are doing an excellent job. We’re going to wait for their findings before making any further comments,” he said.
Rubio also acknowledged the potential wider implications of the incident. “We’re aware of the risks this kind of attack poses — it could have ripple effects. That’s something both our countries are mindful of,” he added.
Investigation Points to Pakistan-Based Groups
The blast near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 has been officially classified as a terror incident. Preliminary investigations have revealed links to Pakistan-based outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGH). Authorities believe the attack was orchestrated by a so-called “white-collar” terror module, comprising educated individuals including doctors and clerics.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is leading the probe, has already recovered nearly 2,921 kilograms of explosive substances from various locations across Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Several arrests have been made in connection with the case following a series of coordinated raids.
India’s Leadership Vows Swift Action
Earlier this week, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the Red Fort blast and reaffirmed its commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. The Cabinet’s resolution called the explosion “a heinous act perpetrated by anti-national forces” and directed that the investigation be conducted with “utmost urgency and professionalism.”
The government has also asked security agencies to remain on high alert, particularly around sensitive locations in the capital.
International Solidarity
Rubio’s comments mark one of the first high-level US reactions to the Delhi blast and underscore Washington’s support for India in combating terrorism. The US and India have maintained a close security partnership, especially in counterterrorism cooperation and intelligence sharing.
As the NIA continues its investigation, both nations have reiterated their shared commitment to counter extremism and ensure accountability for those responsible for the deadly attack.
