Islamabad: In a significant diplomatic disclosure, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar has clarified that India never consented to third-party mediation in ceasefire discussions following Operation Sindoor. This statement directly challenges claims made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who asserted that he had played a key role in facilitating the ceasefire between the two nations.
Speaking in an interview with Al Jazeera, Dar explained that while Pakistan was open to dialogue and considered external involvement, India maintained that all issues must be resolved bilaterally. He emphasized that India explicitly rejected any mediation offers from third parties.
Dar further revealed that the U.S., through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, had communicated the possibility of U.S. mediation during a meeting in July 2025. However, India’s firm stance on bilateral resolution meant that no third-party involvement was accepted.
The ceasefire in May 2025 thus unfolded without U.S. mediation, despite the offers extended by the current U.S. administration. Pakistan, having sustained significant losses during the conflict, sought to end hostilities, but India’s insistence on a bilateral approach remained decisive.
This development highlights the nuances of international diplomacy and underscores the principle of respecting sovereign nations’ preferences in conflict resolution. While Pakistan expressed willingness for dialogue, India retains the prerogative to define the terms of any future engagement.
Dar’s admission serves as a reminder of the delicate balance in global relations and the necessity of clear communication and mutual respect among nations.