Prime Minister Narendra Modi has firmly rejected any notion of third-party involvement in the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, directly challenging former US President Donald Trump’s assertions that he played a role in mediating the truce. In a 35-minute phone dialogue with Trump, Modi clarified that the decision to halt Operation Sindoor stemmed from direct military communication between Indian and Pakistani forces, rather than being influenced by external negotiations or pressures.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri elaborated on this point in a video statement shared on X, revealing that Modi informed Trump there had been no discussions pertaining to a trade deal or US mediation during Operation Sindoor. The Prime Minister firmly reiterated India’s stance against third-party mediation, stating, “India has never accepted mediation, does not accept it, and will never accept it.”
The backdrop to this conversation involved a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan that followed a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. In response, India conducted targeted military strikes against terror hubs within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7. Pakistan subsequently attempted to strike Indian military positions, leading to a series of retaliatory exchanges of fire over the ensuing days.
Modi conveyed to Trump that the ceasefire was a product of direct communications initiated by Pakistan’s request between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations. Additionally, he made it clear that India now perceives cross-border terror acts as acts of war rather than as mere proxy actions.
Despite Trump’s claims of US diplomatic efforts contributing to the de-escalation of the situation, Modi maintained that the suspension of Operation Sindoor does not indicate a decrease in vigilant oversight regarding Pakistan. Trump’s claims have reignited political debates within India, with opposition voices expressing concerns over Modi’s silence on the matter. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor notably criticized the premise of mediation, asserting that it was not viable between “terrorists and their victims.”
During their conversation, Trump extended an invitation for Modi to meet during his upcoming visit to the US; however, Modi declined the offer, citing existing commitments. Both leaders expressed a willingness to arrange a meeting at a later date.
