Pakistan has received a blow regarding the Kashmir issue, as the US appears to be changing its approach. A senior US State Department official has said that Kashmir is a matter for India and Pakistan to resolve directly, and that the US isn’t interested in pressuring either country to do so. This position from the Trump administration is likely unwelcome news for Pakistan, which has been actively trying to raise the Kashmir issue on the international stage.
The official continued by saying the US is leaving the matter to India and Pakistan, while also emphasizing that when it comes to the affairs of India and Pakistan, the US prioritizes its ‘America First’ policy. India has always favored a bilateral approach to the issue, and the US statement is seen as a consequence of India’s diplomatic influence.
The official said that the US views India and Pakistan separately. The US acts in its own interests, following the ‘America First’ policy.
The official added that President Trump has a lot of other matters to address. However, he’s prepared to help if asked.
At the UN General Assembly, Trump mentioned he had helped to stop a conflict between India and Pakistan. The State Department official said the US was involved in the crisis and helped to facilitate a ceasefire.
India doesn’t want any third-party involvement in talks with Pakistan regarding terrorism and Kashmir, as New Delhi believes they should be handled bilaterally. The US has, on the other hand, raised the Kashmir issue at different international forums. The US statement is in line with India’s view.
In response to the April 22nd terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7th. Pakistan responded with attacks on India, to which the Indian armed forces bravely retaliated. The three-day conflict concluded with a ceasefire on May 10th, which was first announced by Trump on social media.
Since May 10th, Trump has claimed he helped to reduce tensions between India and Pakistan. India has disputed these claims.