US President Donald Trump described the escalation between India and Pakistan-following India’s military strikes inside Pakistani territory and Pakistan-administered Kashmir-as “a shame,” expressing regret over the renewed hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump stated, “It’s a shame. We just heard about it just as we were walking in the doors of the Oval,” highlighting how the news had only just reached him as he entered the Oval Office234578.
He further reflected on the long history of conflict between India and Pakistan, saying, “They’ve been fighting for a long time. You know, they’ve been fighting for many, many decades and centuries, actually, if you really think about it,” before adding, “I just hope it ends very quickly”234578.
Context of the Attack
India’s strikes, dubbed “Operation Sindoor,” targeted what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. These actions were in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, including Indian and Nepali citizens68. The Indian government stated that credible evidence pointed to Pakistan-based terrorists being responsible for the Pahalgam attack68.
Pakistan’s military confirmed Indian strikes on multiple locations, including Kotli, Bahawalpur, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Muridke, and reported civilian casualties. Pakistan responded by shooting down Indian jets and launching counter-strikes, further escalating tensions345.
Diplomatic and Global Response
Trump’s remarks were echoed by calls from the US State Department for restraint and a peaceful resolution, with spokesperson Tammy Bruce stating that the US was “closely monitoring the rapidly developing situation” and urging both countries to “work towards a responsible resolution that maintains long-term peace and regional stability in South Asia”4.
Other US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reiterated support for dialogue and a peaceful outcome, while India’s diplomatic channels emphasized the retaliatory nature of their strikes as measured and targeted against terrorist infrastructure6.
Modi’s Statement on Water Diplomacy
Amid the military escalation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also made a pointed statement about India’s use of its river waters, suggesting that water resources would now be used solely for India’s benefit. This was widely interpreted as a signal of further pressure tactics against Pakistan, especially in the context of the Indus Waters Treaty1.
Summary Table: Trump’s Reaction and Key Developments
| Event/Statement | Details |
|---|---|
| Trump’s Description | Called the escalation “a shame”; expressed hope for a quick end to hostilities |
| Context of Attack | India struck targets in Pakistan after Pahalgam attack; Pakistan retaliated |
| US Diplomatic Response | Urged restraint and dialogue; closely monitoring the situation |
| Modi’s Water Statement | Asserted India’s rivers will now flow for India’s benefit, hinting at Indus Treaty review |
Conclusion
President Trump’s reaction to India’s attack on Pakistan was one of regret and concern, labeling the renewed violence as “a shame” and emphasizing the need for a swift de-escalation. His comments reflect broader international anxiety about the risks of conflict between two nuclear-armed neighbors and underline the global call for restraint and dialogue in South Asia
