On February 21, in Washington D.C., US President Donald Trump reiterated his position concerning the mediation of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, emphasising his proposal of imposing “200 percent tariffs.” This statement emerged amidst discussions on a US Supreme Court ruling that determined the Trump administration had overstepped its legal authority regarding the imposition of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977. During his remarks, Trump adjusted his previous claim regarding aerial engagements during the conflict, stating that ten fighter jets had been shot down, a revision from his earlier assertion of eleven planes. He insisted that tariffs were instrumental in resolving several international disputes.

Claims of War Mediation

Trump highlighted that tariffs had facilitated the resolution of five out of eight conflicts he claimed to have settled, specifically mentioning the India-Pakistan situation. He stated, “The Prime Minister of Pakistan said… that President Trump could have saved 35 million lives by getting us to stop fighting.” This reference was made during the inaugural Peace Board meeting, where Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Trump for his alleged role in bringing about peace, labeling him a “man of peace” and claiming that his involvement had potentially averted massive casualties.

Specific Incidents and Reactions

Trump alleged that preparations for a significant escalation in hostilities were underway between India and Pakistan, claiming, “That war is going and probably going nuclear. I did it largely with tariffs.” He asserted that the threat of high tariffs prompted diplomatic conversations between the nations, which he argued led to a resolution of hostilities. However, Trump’s assertions have faced robust criticism and denial from the Indian government, which has consistently maintained that the ceasefire came about through direct communication between military officials without any third-party mediation.

Context of the Recent Statements

Trump’s statements come in the wake of a terror attack in Pahalgam, India, in April 2024, resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals. Following the attack, the Indian government launched a tactical operation known as Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. In response to the ongoing tensions and diplomatic discussions regarding Kashmir, India has reiterated its stand that any resolution must stem from bilateral negotiations between India and Pakistan.

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