US President Donald Trump on Wednesday commented for the second time on the rising conflict between India and Pakistan, noting that both countries have “gone tit-for-tat”. Trump also expressing hope suggesting that further escalation can be avoided. Speaking from the White House, Trump said he knows both nations “very well” and wants “to see them work it out.” He also added, “And if I can do anything to help, I will be there.” After India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, Trump had described the situation as a “shame”.
According to a statement from the US State Department, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has had various discussions on how to reduce the tensions between India and Pakistan during a phone call with his Saudi Arabian counterpart.
The latest conflict began when India launched missile strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir on Wednesday. The government had made it clear that the strikes were in response to the deadly Pahalgam atatck on April 22.
Pakistan on the other hand has repeatedly rejected the accusations and called for an independent investigation. This marks one of the most serious confrontations between the two neighbours in more than 20 years.
While India is seen as a central player in Washington’s efforts to counter China’s growing power, Pakistan remains a close aid of China.
In recent days, US officials have been in contact with both New Delhi and Islamabad. Secretary Rubio has held discussions with leaders from both countries following India’s military action. However, some analysts believe that the US may take a more hands-off approach during the early stages of this conflict, given its current diplomatic focus on the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.