Pakistan faces a new challenge regarding the Jammu and Kashmir issue. A senior official from the US State Department has stated that the Kashmir dispute should be resolved directly between India and Pakistan. The United States is not keen on intervening or pressuring either nation on this matter. This shift in the Trump administration’s stance could be disappointing for Pakistan, which has consistently sought international attention on the Kashmir issue.
The official added that the US believes it should be left to India and Pakistan to resolve the matter. The official also underscored the importance of the United States’ ‘America First’ policy and the focus on US interests when dealing with matters related to India and Pakistan. India has long maintained that the issue should be handled bilaterally; this recent statement is viewed as a consequence of India’s diplomatic influence.
The official explained that the United States evaluates India and Pakistan through separate perspectives. The US then acts according to its own interests, as per the ‘America First’ doctrine.
During the press conference, the official noted that President Donald Trump has numerous immediate concerns that require resolution. The US is ready to assist if requested.
Despite Trump’s earlier assertion at the United Nations General Assembly about preventing conflict between India and Pakistan, the State Department official acknowledged the US involvement and assistance in securing a ceasefire.
India has consistently opposed third-party involvement in discussions with Pakistan concerning issues such as terrorism and Kashmir, believing these matters should be managed bilaterally. The US, on the other hand, has previously addressed Kashmir at various international forums, from the OIC to the UN. The recent statement from the US aligns closely with India’s perspective.
Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, India initiated Operation Sindoor on May 7. In response, Pakistan launched attacks against India, which were met with a strong response from the Indian armed forces. The conflict, which lasted for three days, concluded with a ceasefire on May 10, first announced by Trump via social media.
Since May 10, Trump has repeatedly asserted his role in lowering tensions between India and Pakistan, though India has refuted these claims.