Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari have praised US President Donald Trump for helping ease tensions between Pakistan and India, urging the US to play a bigger role in promoting peace between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Speaking at a US Independence Day event at the American Embassy in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz said the recent four-day military clash between India and Pakistan was triggered by a false-flag operation in Pahalgam, and credited President Trump for helping secure a ceasefire.
“President Trump is a man of peace and diplomacy. His role in ending the conflict proves he is against war and for stability,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Shehbaz claimed that Indian airstrikes on May 6 and 7 killed 33 Pakistani civilians. In response, Pakistan shot down six Indian jets in self-defense, he added.
“Instead of giving proof, India reacted with aggression. We still want an impartial investigation into the Pahalgam incident,” he said.
He congratulated the US on its 249th Independence Day and said US-Pakistan relations were improving.
Bilawal Seeks US Help for Dialogue
In Washington, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari told Pakistani journalists that Trump’s efforts led to the recent ceasefire and should now be extended toward promoting dialogue.
“President Trump deserves credit. He helped make the ceasefire possible. Now he can help bring both countries to the table for talks,” said Bilawal, who is leading a Pakistani delegation on a US visit.
He criticized US policy of making India a “net security provider” in Asia, calling it a failed strategy.
“India couldn’t protect its own planes. How can it provide regional security?” he asked.
“It’s time to rethink this policy. Real peace will come from India-Pakistan dialogue — not from arms buildup.”
Dar: Pakistan Ready for Dialogue, But Not Desperate
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also supported the idea of dialogue but warned that aggressive statements from Indian leaders were keeping tensions high.
“We’re always ready for meaningful talks — but not desperate. India must stop warmongering,” he said at a press conference in Islamabad.
He criticized Indian PM Narendra Modi for saying the recent conflict was “just a trailer” and rejected India’s stance that talks should only cover terrorism.
“Talks must cover all key issues — including water rights, terrorism, and Kashmir. One-sided talks won’t work,” Dar said.
