Doha (National Times): Addressing U.S. military personnel in Qatar, President Donald Trump asserted that he had played a pivotal role in reducing tensions between India and Pakistan, suggesting that his behind-the-scenes diplomacy helped avert a possible military escalation.
In his characteristically freewheeling style, Trump recounted what he described as a dangerous standoff between the two South Asian rivals. “I think it is settled,” he told the audience. “It looked like it was really going to be escalating out of control.”
Trump’s remarks hinted at a sharp increase in hostilities that, according to him, were simmering just last week. While details were vague, he painted a picture of near-crisis. “All of a sudden you’ll start seeing missiles of a different type,” he said, suggesting potential military exchanges were narrowly avoided.
He credited his outreach to both governments for encouraging dialogue over confrontation. “Let’s do trade instead of war,” he said, describing both India and Pakistan as “very happy” with the outcome.
The President’s comments included a blend of bravado and historical generalization, claiming the two countries had been engaged in conflict for “about a thousand years.” He added humorously, “That’s a tough one… I could settle anything. Let me settle it up.”
Though the speech drew applause from troops, no corroboration has come from either New Delhi or Islamabad regarding any direct mediation or breakthrough led by Washington. In fact, both nations have historically resisted third-party involvement in bilateral disputes, particularly concerning the sensitive Kashmir issue.
While Trump has in the past offered to mediate between the two nations, India has consistently maintained that issues with Pakistan must be addressed bilaterally, without external interference.
The remarks may signal Washington’s continued interest in regional stability, but analysts caution against reading too much into the President’s off-the-cuff declarations without official backing or concrete developments on the ground.
