Documents Expose Pakistan’s Intense Lobbying Push in US Against Operation Sindoor

New Delhi: US government documents have revealed new layers of Pakistan's anxiety that it felt during India's military action in May 2025. After Operation 'Sindoor,' the tremendous lobbying done by Pakistan in Washington has now become a part of the record. It is clear from these files that Islamabad tried to put extraordinary pressure on America to stop India's military advance.

Why did Pakistan become so active after Operation Sindoor?

India gave a strong response after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in April 2025. As the military action intensified, Pakistan feared that the situation might go out of its control. This fear forced him to knock on the doors of Washington.

What do the US documents indicate?

Papers filed under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) show that Pakistani diplomats and defense officials tried to contact more than 60 influential people in the US. This includes names related to the administration, Congress, the Pentagon, and the media.

How many meetings were attempted?

According to records, from the beginning of Operation Sindoor till the complete implementation of the ceasefire, Pakistan requested more than 50 meetings. The campaign was conducted through emails, phone calls, and face-to-face meetings.

What agenda was kept in these meetings?

Pakistan made Kashmir, regional security, and bilateral relations the center of talks. Apart from this, issues like rare minerals and economic cooperation were also raised. Attempts were also made to obtain interviews and background briefings from several American media organizations.

Did this lobbying start suddenly?

No, Earlier in November 2025, it was reported that Pakistan had signed agreements with six lobbying firms of Washington worth about $5 million annually. The objective was to gain direct access to the Trump administration and gain diplomatic benefits.

How did relations change with the Trump administration?

Just a few weeks after these efforts, then-President Donald Trump called Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir to the White House. This was seen as a sudden warmth in US-Pakistan relations.

How much did Pakistan spend compared to India?

According to a New York Times report, in April and May 2025, Pakistan spent almost three times more than India on lobbying. This spending was focused directly on outreach to policymakers and the media.

Did this change the American stance?

Experts believe that this campaign showed a softening of America's stance. Trump was openly praised by Pakistan, and his name was even discussed for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Did this pressure subside later?

There are some indications that this spending and activity decreased by the end of the year. But FARA documents show that Pakistan was under immense military and diplomatic pressure at that time and tried every possible means.

What is the larger meaning of these revelations?

These documents show that when India gained ground, Pakistan left the field and concentrated its efforts on the diplomatic front. This campaign in Washington is an indication that regional conflicts are no longer limited to just the borders, but their echoes have started reaching the global powers.