Is Trump Really Considering Mediation in Kashmir Despite India's Strong Rejection?

Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the US State Department has brought up President Trump's potential mediation in the Kashmir conflict, despite India's firm stance against external involvement. This raises questions about international diplomacy and the complexities surrounding the Kashmir issue.
Key Takeaways
- US State Department suggests Trump may mediate Kashmir dispute.
- India maintains a firm stance against external involvement.
- Claims of US mediation in ceasefire are disputed by India.
- India's military strength played a crucial role in recent tensions.
- Ongoing discussions between the US and Pakistan remain confidential.
Washington, June 11 (NationPress) – In light of India's consistent rejection of any external role in the Kashmir issue, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce revisited the topic, suggesting that it would not be surprising if President Donald Trump sought to mediate.
During her routine briefing on Tuesday, when asked about Trump's purported offer, Bruce remarked, “Naturally, I can’t comment on the president's thoughts or future plans.”
However, she added, “It’s clear that President Trump is committed to addressing longstanding conflicts between nations.”
She continued, “Thus, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that he would want to engage in resolving the Kashmir issue.”
Reaffirming India's perspective on Kashmir, India’s External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "Our nation has a consistent policy that all matters related to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir must be resolved bilaterally between India and Pakistan.”
“This established position remains unchanged. The core issue is the withdrawal of illegally occupied Indian territory by Pakistan,” he emphasized.
India's stance against third-party involvement is reinforced by the 1972 Tashkent Agreement between the leaders of both nations.
Bruce mentioned that the US continues to express “strong support for India in its fight against terrorism and the strategic partnership between the two nations” during a recent meeting between an Indian parliamentary delegation led by Sashi Tharoor and Deputy Secretary Landau.
On the Kashmir matter, Bruce praised Trump, stating, “He has undeniably been the only leader capable of bringing parties together for discussions once deemed impossible.”
“While I can’t disclose his plans, the world is aware of his approach, and for further details, you might want to reach out to the White House,” she noted.
Bruce reiterated the controversial assertion – dismissed by India – that the US played a role in facilitating a ceasefire during the recent four-day conflict between India and Pakistan.
“It’s a promising time if we can resolve this specific conflict [between India and Pakistan]. Thanking Secretary [of State Marco] Rubio, President Trump, and Vice President [JD Vance] for their contributions,” she remarked, emphasizing US involvement.
Dismissive of these claims, first made by Trump shortly after hostilities ceased, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified that the US did not mediate the ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
According to him, the two nations made the decision to cease military actions independently.
Jaiswal asserted, “It was India’s military capability during Operation Sindoor – not any external intervention – that prompted Pakistan to pursue a ceasefire.”
“To be clear, it was the strength of Indian forces that compelled Pakistan to halt its fire,” he explained.
He elaborated, “You will surely recognize that on the morning of May 10th, we launched a highly effective strike on crucial Pakistani Air Force bases. This was why they were inclined to cease fire and military operations.”
A reporter inquired whether Pakistan had assured any actions against terrorists during a recent meeting with Under Secretary for Political Affairs Allison Hooker led by former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
She responded curtly, “I will not engage in discussing the specifics of those discussions.”