U.S. Claims It Averted Nuclear War as India-Pakistan Ceasefire Holds Amid Tensions
U.S. President Donald Trump claimed credit for averting a potential nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan, citing American-led mediation efforts that led to a ceasefire on May 10. However, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a firm address, dismissed outside intervention and warned against any further provocation, suggesting the situation remains volatile. Pakistan, meanwhile, laid out firm conditions for any future dialogue, keeping core disputes unresolved.
Key Points:
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U.S. Mediation and Ceasefire Efforts
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Trump declared the U.S. had prevented a “bad nuclear war” that could have killed millions.
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He linked future trade deals to de-escalation, stating: “If you stop it, we’re doing trade. If you don’t, we’re not.”
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Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were credited with facilitating negotiations.
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Trump praised both Indian and Pakistani leaders for showing “wisdom and fortitude.”
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India’s Firm Stance
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PM Modi rejected the idea of “nuclear blackmail” and vowed a strong response to any future attacks.
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He defended India’s missile strikes on May 7 and accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism, referencing the April 22 Pahalgam attack.
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Modi downplayed third-party mediation, stating that retaliation was only “postponed, not abandoned.”
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He made no mention of reported Indian aircraft losses, including advanced Rafale jets.
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Pakistan’s Preconditions for Talks
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Defence Minister Khawaja Asif highlighted three non-negotiable issues:
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Kashmir: Resolution based on UN resolutions.
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Terrorism: Claimed India is responsible for cross-border terrorism.
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Water Disputes: Warned India against violating the Indus Water Treaty.
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Asserted that “India’s arrogance” is the main barrier to peace.
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Why It Matters:
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Ceasefire Still Fragile:
Modi’s defiant tone suggests India reserves the right to act militarily, indicating the ceasefire may be temporary. -
Nuclear Risk:
Trump’s claim highlights international concern over South Asia’s nuclear tension, where missteps can have catastrophic consequences. -
U.S. Strategy – Economic Leverage:
The U.S. is testing whether trade incentives can bring peace in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
While the U.S. claims credit for brokering a ceasefire and preventing a nuclear disaster, deep-rooted tensions between India and Pakistan remain unresolved. Modi’s rejection of outside mediation and Pakistan’s firm conditions signal that peace is precarious. The region stays on edge, with military forces on alert and diplomatic efforts facing significant hurdles. Without meaningful progress on core disputes, the risk of renewed conflict looms large.
