Policy Shift Or Just Words? Inside US Envoy Gor’s 'Kashmir' Remark That Rattled Pakistan

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor’s first visit to Jammu and Kashmir has sparked a diplomatic debate after he described the Union Territory as “an important part of India.” Pakistan strongly reacted to the remark and summoned the US envoy, calling the statement irresponsible. But does Gor’s comment signal a change in Washington’s Kashmir policy, or is it being given too much importance? Experts have offered differing views. Kanwal Sibal and MJ Akbar see significance in the wording, while KP Fabian and Sushant Singh caution India against relying on foreign endorsement. Gor has also indicated that the US may review its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Jammu and Kashmir. This explainer looks at the statement, Pakistan’s reaction, expert views and what could determine its wider significance.