The Group of Seven (G7) major countries on Fridayurged India and Pakistan to engage in direct dialogue as hostilities rise between the nuclear-armed neighbors, while the U.S. government said it has offered assistance in starting "constructive talks.

A G7 statement said that the bloc is closely monitoring the situation and supports a swift and lasting diplomatic solution to the crisis.

The Group of Seven (G7) nations on Friday urged India and Pakistan to immediately de-escalate rising military tensions and engage in direct dialogue following deadly cross-border strikes and clashes that have claimed dozens of lives.