Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, May 23: In a firm rebuttal to former US President Donald Trump’s claim of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has categorically stated that the recent de-escalation between the two nations was purely a result of direct bilateral engagement, without any foreign intervention.

During a media interaction in The Netherlands, Dr. Jaishankar dismissed Trump’s remarks, saying, “This is something that only India and Pakistan need to settle directly.” He underlined India’s longstanding policy that all matters, including the Kashmir issue, must be resolved bilaterally and peacefully, and not under the influence or intervention of third parties.

The minister further emphasised that India remains open to dialogue, but only under clear and serious conditions that prioritise an end to cross-border terrorism. “We are always ready to talk, but the talks must be serious and should focus on stopping terrorism,” Jaishankar stated.

Trump, in his earlier statement, had claimed that he helped broker peace between the two South Asian nuclear powers, describing the conflict as a “thousand-year war.” However, Indian authorities have consistently denied such assertions, reiterating that New Delhi neither seeks nor requires external mediation in bilateral matters.

Recalling historical context, Jaishankar elaborated on the deep-rooted tensions between the neighbours, which stem from the Partition of 1947 and Pakistan’s subsequent pattern of hostility and extremism. He highlighted that Pakistan had infiltrated fighters disguised as tribal militias into Kashmir, who were later identified as Pakistani soldiers, many in uniform.

Referring to the recent Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which tragically claimed 26 lives, including one Nepali national, Jaishankar said such incidents exemplify Pakistan’s continued support for terrorism. In response, India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, a precision counter-terror strike that dismantled nine key terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

According to official sources, over 100 terrorists affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen were neutralised in the operation, reinforcing India’s resolve to defend its sovereignty and root out terrorism from the region.

Dr. Jaishankar’s remarks underscore India’s clear diplomatic stance — issues with Pakistan will be resolved by India and Pakistan alone, with no room for foreign intervention, irrespective of who claims credit.