On May 10, 2025, India and Pakistan agreed to a conditional ceasefire, halting military combat after days of intense conflict. The tensions began after a militant attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people.
The ceasefire, effective from 17:00 IST, came after India carried out strikes on Pakistani targets, followed by Pakistan’s retaliatory actions. This raised fears of escalation between the two nuclear-armed nations.
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However, the role of the United States in brokering this truce has become a point of contention.
US President Donald Trump claimed the ceasefire resulted from “a long night of talks mediated by the United States.”
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This aligns with the U.S.’s interest in stabilizing South Asia and avoiding the risk of nuclear conflict. Experts like Praveen Donthi believe the U.S. also saw this as a chance to project global leadership and counter China’s influence in the region, especially through Pakistan’s ties to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
India, however, strongly rejected these claims. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the ceasefire was negotiated directly between the Directors General of Military Operations of both countries. He stressed that India follows a long-standing policy of resolving issues bilaterally, as outlined in the 1972 Simla Agreement.
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According to India, direct military communication was the key factor behind the ceasefire. The U.S. may have played a background role, offering encouragement or logistical support for future talks.
Although the ceasefire stopped further military (kinetic) action, India’s restrictions on water, trade, diplomacy, and finance remain in place. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty is especially damaging to Pakistan’s agriculture.
While the U.S. is pushing for broader talks, India’s firm stance on bilateral engagement may limit further American involvement in this fragile peace process.
