Trump’s Kashmir Claim Sparks Controversy

Former United States President Donald Trump ignited debate with remarks suggesting Pakistan and India have been engaged in conflict over Kashmir for a millennium. His comments came amid escalating tensions between the two nations.

Following a fatal attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), relations between the nuclear-armed neighbors have deteriorated significantly. The attack in Pahalgam resulted in the deaths of numerous tourists, exacerbating already strained bilateral ties to a level not seen in decades.

While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump stated that the Kashmir issue had persisted for a thousand years, perhaps even longer. This statement contains factual inaccuracies regarding the timeline of the conflict.

Despite the historical inaccuracy of Trump’s statement, none of the journalists present corrected the record. The Kashmir dispute arose from the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947.

When questioned about the border tensions, Trump responded that such tensions had existed for an extended period, possibly 1,500 years, but expressed confidence that a resolution would be found.

He commented that India and Pakistan would ultimately resolve their relationship. He mentioned familiarity with both countries’ leaders but did not commit to contacting them directly.

Trump acknowledged the ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India, describing them as a long-standing issue.

Amidst strained relations and escalating war risk, the United Nations (UN) has appealed for maximum restraint between the two countries. This appeal follows reciprocal diplomatic measures implemented in response to the recent deadly incident.

Following the attack, New Delhi reportedly suspended a water-sharing agreement, closed a primary land border crossing with Pakistan, lowered diplomatic ties, and revoked visas for Pakistani citizens.

Islamabad responded by expelling Indian diplomats and military advisors, canceling visas for Indian nationals with exceptions for Sikh pilgrims, and closing the main border crossing from its side.

Pakistan has also issued a warning that any attempt by India to impede water flow from the Indus River would be considered an “act of war.”

Since the independence in 1947, Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan. India has yet to conduct a UN-mandated plebiscite in the region.

Since 1989, rebel factions in IIOJK have been engaged in an insurgency advocating for independence.