Baghdad – President Donald Trump has called for an immediate halt to the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan. Speaking from the White House on Wednesday, Trump expressed deep concern over the recent military exchanges between the two nuclear-armed nations. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and offered U.S. assistance in mediating a peace agreement.
The violence intensified early Wednesday when India launched missile strikes on at least nine sites in Pakistan. According to India’s Defense Ministry, the targets were locations where terrorist attacks against India had been planned. Pakistan’s military reported that the strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 26 people, including women and children, and described the attacks as an “act of war.”
In response, Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian fighter jets. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned India’s actions, stating that Pakistan had every right to respond robustly to what he termed an “act of war.” He vowed that Pakistan would hold India accountable for the aggression.
The recent flare-up follows a deadly attack in April, when a gunman killed 26 people, primarily Indian Hindu tourists, in the India-controlled portion of Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan for the incident, and a militant group with alleged ties to Pakistan claimed responsibility.
President Trump, who has maintained good relations with both India and Pakistan, expressed hope that the two countries could resolve their differences peacefully. He reiterated his willingness to assist in facilitating dialogue between the nations. Trump’s offer to mediate underscores the United States’ commitment to supporting peace and stability in the region.
The international community has expressed concern over the potential for further escalation. Leaders from around the world have called for restraint and urged both India and Pakistan to engage in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
As tensions remain high, the hope is that diplomatic channels will prevail, and both nations will work towards a peaceful resolution. The coming days will be critical in determining the trajectory of this conflict and the prospects for lasting peace in the region.
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