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Trump Steps Back from Taking Credit, Says India-Pakistan Leaders ‘Decided’ to End Conflict

President Trump recently acknowledged that India and Pakistan’s leaders decided to end their conflict without attributing the resolution to his influence. This marks a shift from weeks of claiming credit for de-escalation. Following a meeting with General Munir, Trump underscored the importance of peace between the two countries’ nuclear powers. Discussions about Iran took place, but the U.S. remains outside any mediation efforts. Modi’s commitment to a no-third-party mediation stance remains firm, as talks between the leaders continue to be crucial.

In a notable change, President Donald Trump stated that the leaders of India and Pakistan chose to de-escalate their ongoing conflict, a situation that had the potential to lead to nuclear war. This comment, made during a recent Oval Office press meeting, marks the first time in weeks Trump refrained from claiming credit for resolution efforts. He emphasized respect for both leaders, labeling them as “very smart” individuals making a critical decision.

Trump expressed his appreciation for meeting Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, during lunch at the White House. While addressing the media, he stated, “I want to thank him for not going into the war, ending the war,” indicating gratitude towards both Munir and India’s Prime Minister Modi for their roles in easing tensions between their nations.

Discussion veered to Iran when Trump noted Munir’s familiarity with the country. He spoke about the discomfort expressed over Iran’s actions, adding that both leaders acknowledged the situation. He commented, “It’s not that they are bad with Israel. They know them both, actually.”

This statement represents a shift for Trump, who had previously claimed credit for resolving tensions since mid-May, after India and Pakistan agreed to cease military conflict. He had repeatedly insisted that his influence sparked ongoing dialogue. Asserting that he would facilitate trade opportunities, Trump maintained that relations could improve if hostilities ceased.

The anticipation of talks between Trump and Modi during the upcoming G7 Leaders’ Summit in Canada ended abruptly when Trump returned to Washington sooner than expected, canceling the meeting. Before leaving Canada, however, Modi did manage a phone call with Trump to discuss their partnership.

Vikram Misri, India’s Foreign Secretary, clarified that at no point during military operations did discussions about a trade agreement or U.S. mediation occur. He highlighted that communication regarding the ceasefire was facilitated through established military channels at Pakistan’s request, not through third-party intervention.

Misri also reinforced India’s firm position against any outside mediation, expressing broad political support for this stance. Following an incident earlier in April, Trump had reached out to Modi to extend condolences regarding terrorism, underscoring the continuing collaborative dialogue.

The two leaders are making efforts to meet in the near future, although Modi has prior commitments, including a scheduled trip to Croatia. Modi’s refusal to visit the U.S. on his way back from Canada reflects a consistent stance on bilateral discussions occurring independently without the influence of external forces.

In summary, President Trump’s recent statements reflect a pivot in tone regarding the India-Pakistan conflict, emphasizing that the resolutions stemmed from the leaders’ own decisions. This is a significant shift from his previous claims of mediating the situation. With Modi and Munir portrayed as intelligent leaders who chose peace, many are left to ponder the future of U.S. involvement in South Asian diplomacy. The larger implications of these statements and ongoing discussions are yet to unfold as both nations navigate their complex relationship amidst regional tensions.

Original Source: www.livemint.com