Trump and Munir (File)
International News: US President Donald Trump praised Munir for his “critical role” in preventing a full-scale war between India and Pakistan after the May 2025 conflict sparked by a terror attack in Pahalgam. The meeting, attended by U.S. military officials, underscores America’s strategic pivot toward Pakistan amid rising tensions in West Asia and China’s growing regional influence.
The India-Pakistan tensions escalated after the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians, prompting India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7. The operation targeted militant sites in Pakistan, leading to a four-day clash. On May 10, at 3:30 PM IST, Pakistan’s DGMO initiated a ceasefire call, finalized by 5:00 PM through bilateral military talks. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a June 18 call with Trump at 10:25 AM IST, clarified that no U.S. mediation occurred, countering Trump’s claim of brokering peace. Trump’s praise for Munir reflects his attempt to highlight U.S. diplomatic influence, despite India’s insistence on bilateral resolution.
Munir’s recent crackdown on ISIS-K, including a high-profile militant arrest, has bolstered U.S. trust, with Trump calling Pakistan a “key partner” in stabilizing Afghanistan. Discussions likely covered Pakistan’s diplomatic leverage with Iran, crucial amid Israel-Iran tensions. The meeting, arranged with input from Pakistani-American businessman Sajid Tarar, faced protests from Imran Khan’s PTI supporters outside the White House, highlighting Pakistan’s domestic political friction.
Trump’s high praise for Munir, equating his influence to that of a head of state, has raised eyebrows in India, where analysts view it as a diplomatic misstep. The lunch underscores Pakistan’s growing relevance in U.S. foreign policy but risks straining ties with India, which staunchly opposes third-party involvement. As global tensions rise, this meeting positions Pakistan as a pivotal player in America’s South Asian strategy.
Copyright © 2025 Top Indian News
