US President Donald Trump steered clear of direct involvement in the renewed tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, stating that the two countries would “get it figured out one way or the other.”
While Trump had previously offered to mediate between the nuclear-armed neighbors during his first term, he declined to repeat that offer on Friday. Speaking to reporters en route to Rome for Pope Francis’ funeral, Trump responded to a question on whether he planned to speak to the leaders of the two nations, saying, “There have been tensions on that border for 1500 years”—an exaggerated rhetorical reference to the long-standing conflict—“but they’ll get it figured out. I’m sure. I know both leaders.”
India has consistently resisted any third-party mediation in its border disputes, whether with Pakistan or China. In contrast, Pakistan has been open to such interventions. Trump’s previous offer came in response to a public appeal by then-Prime Minister Imran Khan during a joint media interaction in the Oval Office. India had promptly and firmly declined the offer.
During his second term, Trump made a similar proposal to mediate the India-China border dispute during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s February visit to the White House, which was also politely rejected by the Indian delegation.
Although Trump refrained from offering a mediation role this time, both he and senior US officials have strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack. Trump spoke with Prime Minister Modi hours after the incident, offering condolences and reaffirming US support against terrorism. The White House also issued a statement denouncing the attack.
US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard echoed the administration’s sentiments on Friday, posting on X: “We are with you and support you as you hunt down those responsible for this heinous attack.”
(With IANS inputs)
