On Thursday, May 15, Doha, Former US President Donald Trump once again asserted that he played a pivotal role in defusing recent military tensions between India and Pakistan, despite New Delhi reiterating that no third party was involved in the de-escalation process.
Speaking to American military personnel at the al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Trump declared, “I don't want to say I did, but I sure as hell helped settle the problem between Pakistan and India last week, which was getting more and more hostile.”
Trump recounted that the situation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours had been rapidly escalating, with increasing threats of missile exchanges. “And suddenly, you'll start seeing missiles of a different type. And we got it settled. I hope… I think it is settled,” he added.
This marks the sixth instance since Saturday that Trump has publicly claimed credit for mediating what he called a “ceasefire” between India and Pakistan.
Escalation and Resolution Timeline
The recent conflict flared up following a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed 26 lives. In retaliation, India launched precision strikes under 'Operation Sindoor' on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure across the border.Pakistan responded by attempting to attack Indian military installations on May 8, 9, and 10, prompting fierce counterattacks by Indian forces on Pakistani military targets.
The high-intensity conflict lasted four days and involved drone and missile strikes across land and air. An understanding of how to halt all hostilities was reached on May 10, according to Indian government sources.
India Asserts Bilateral Resolution
Officials in New Delhi clarified that the resolution was achieved through direct communication between both nations' Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs). The understanding, they said, covered an immediate cessation of all military actions across land, air, and sea.India firmly denied the involvement of any third party, reiterating its long-standing position that all matters with Pakistan, including those concerning Kashmir, are bilateral.
Trump’s Continued Claims
Despite the Indian stance, Trump persisted with his narrative. Referring to historical animosity between the two nations, he said, “They have been fighting for about 1,000 years. I said, let’s do trade instead of war. Pakistan was pleased with that, and India was pleased with that.”He jokingly added, “How long have you been fighting? About 1,000 years. Oh, that’s a lot. I’m not sure about settling that. That’s a tough one.”
On Saturday, Trump claimed that a “full and immediate ceasefire” had been reached after prolonged negotiations mediated by the US. He also posted on Truth Social, offering to work on a “solution” for Kashmir while applauding what he termed a “historic and heroic decision” by India and Pakistan.
However, Indian authorities continue to reject any suggestion of US mediation, reinforcing their policy of resolving such matters solely through bilateral dialogue.