Trump Acknowledges India-Pakistan Leadership in Preventing Escalation of Military Conflict

In a significant shift, U.S. President Donald Trump has, for the first time, credited the leadership of India and Pakistan for preventing further military escalation, stating that “two very smart people” — Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan’s military chief, General Asim Munir — made the decision to avoid a potentially nuclear conflict.

Trump made the remarks during a media interaction at the White House after hosting General Munir for lunch. “They are both nuclear powers, big ones, and they decided not to keep going with that war,” said Trump. “I want to thank both leaders for that.”

This marks a departure from Trump’s earlier claims that he played a central role in ending hostilities. Trump confirmed discussions with both leaders, noting his recent phone call with Prime Minister Modi during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada.

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified that the decision to cease military action was made directly between the two nations, without third-party involvement, and that Modi reaffirmed India’s policy of no foreign mediation.

Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, remains active. Both sides agreed to halt further military strikes on May 10 following direct communication through their military channels.

President Trump reiterated his admiration for Modi and expressed optimism about ongoing trade negotiations with both India and Pakistan.