India-Pakistan Ceasefire Achieved With US Mediation: Jaishankar Rejects Trump’s Claim

International Desk

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has categorically stated that the recent India-Pakistan ceasefire decision was solely the outcome of bilateral discussions, with no role played by any third party, including the United States. In an interview with Netherlands-based broadcaster NOS, Jaishankar asserted that Pakistan has long used terrorism as an instrument of state policy, while India reserves the right to respond firmly.

Following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which killed 26 people, India launched “Operation Sindhu,” targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Over 100 militants from groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen were neutralized.

Jaishankar stated, “This operation sent a strategic message—if another attack like April 22 occurs, we will not remain silent. If terrorists are in Pakistan, we will enter and eliminate them there.”

He clarified that while “Operation Sindhu” remains an active policy, it does not mean military engagement is ongoing. “At present, a ceasefire is in effect. Therefore, military operations are suspended,” he said.

Jaishankar revealed that on May 10, Pakistan’s military proposed a ceasefire via the hotline, and India responded positively.

He firmly stated, “We have made it clear to everyone—not just the US—that if Pakistan wants to stop the war, they must communicate directly with us. Their army chief must call ours. And that is exactly what happened.”

Regarding US President Donald Trump’s claim that he mediated the ceasefire, Jaishankar dismissed it, saying, “This is purely a matter between us and Pakistan. We want to handle it bilaterally.”

With a pointed remark, he added, “The United States was in their own country,” implying that their role was limited to expressing concern.

He further noted that while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance had contacted Indian leaders, they only expressed concern and did not mediate.

On Kashmir, Jaishankar reiterated India’s stance: “Kashmir is an integral part of India, and no country negotiates over its own territory. Discussions can only be about when Pakistan will vacate the areas it has illegally occupied since 1947-48.”

He emphasized that Kashmir’s administrative structure or the Line of Control (LoC) is not up for discussion. “Any talks must be serious and strictly between the governments of India and Pakistan. But we will not compromise on our territory,” he asserted.