Recent tensions between India and Pakistan have raised concerns about a potential nuclear conflict, with former U.S. President Donald Trump claiming his intervention prevented a "nuclear war" between the two nations. The conflict, which began in early May 2025, saw a rapid escalation of military actions and diplomatic tensions, prompting international concern and mediation efforts.
The immediate trigger for the conflict was a terrorist attack near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, mostly tourists. The attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, though the group later denied responsibility. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, a charge Pakistan denied.
Following the attack, India launched missile strikes on what it claimed were terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir on May 7, 2025, in an operation codenamed "Operation Sindoor". Pakistan retaliated by targeting several Indian military bases. This tit-for-tat exchange continued, with both sides launching air strikes and drone attacks, resulting in casualties on both sides.
The escalating conflict raised fears of a full-blown war between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. International players, including the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, urged de-escalation. On May 10, 2025, a ceasefire was announced following an agreement between India and Pakistan.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that his administration brokered the ceasefire and averted a potential nuclear war. Trump stated that he used trade as leverage, telling both countries, "Come on, we're going to do a lot of trade with you guys. Let's stop it". He suggested that the promise of trade was a significant factor in ending the hostilities.
However, India has rejected Trump's claim of mediation and leveraging trade to broker the ceasefire. Indian officials maintain that the issue of Kashmir is a bilateral matter and that no third party was involved in the ceasefire agreement. They also stated that trade did not come up in discussions between Indian and U.S. leaders during the conflict. Pakistan, on the other hand, has appreciated the U.S.'s role, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanking Trump for his "leadership and proactive role" in bringing about peace.
Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain between India and Pakistan. Both countries have accused each other of violating the ceasefire agreement. India has also warned against nuclear blackmail, while Pakistan has called India's remarks provocative.
The recent conflict highlights the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan and the potential for escalation. While a full-scale nuclear war was averted this time, the situation remains volatile, and continued diplomatic efforts are needed to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
