Pakistan has received another setback regarding the Jammu and Kashmir issue. A senior US State Department official has stated that Kashmir is a direct matter between India and Pakistan, and the United States has no interest in putting pressure on either country regarding this issue. This stance from the Trump administration may come as a blow to Pakistan, which has long been raising the Kashmir issue on international platforms.
The official further stated that the matter is being left to India and Pakistan, emphasizing that the US adheres to an ‘America First’ policy concerning the issues of India and Pakistan. India has consistently advocated for keeping the matter bilateral, and this statement is considered to be a result of India’s influence.
The official explained that the US views India and Pakistan from two different perspectives. Following the America First policy, the US acts in accordance with what is best for its interests.
During a press conference, the official mentioned that US President Donald Trump has many issues to resolve. However, if assistance is requested, he is prepared to help.
During his address at the United Nations General Assembly, Trump reiterated his claim to have stopped the conflict between India and Pakistan. Regarding this, the State Department official stated, “It is true that the US was involved in the crisis and fully assisted in bringing about a ceasefire.”
India has long been against the involvement of any third party in its discussions with Pakistan on issues like terrorism and Kashmir, as New Delhi believes these matters should remain bilateral. While the US has been vocal about Kashmir from the OIC to the UN, this statement from the US is largely in favor of India’s view.
In response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, India initiated Operation Sindoor on May 7. Subsequently, attacks were launched against India from Pakistan, which were bravely responded to by the Indian armed forces. The three-day conflict ended with a ceasefire on May 10, which was first announced by Trump on his social media.
Since May 10, Trump has repeatedly claimed that he helped reduce tensions between India and Pakistan. India has refuted these claims.