On September 27, 2023, India revealed that Pakistan’s military pleaded for a cessation of fighting during Operation Sindoor. This statement emphasizes India’s stance that no third party can intervene in bilateral matters between New Delhi and Islamabad.
Petal Gahlot, First Secretary in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, made these remarks in response to criticisms raised by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the UN General Assembly. Sharif credited former U.S. President Donald Trump with averting conflict between the two nuclear-capable neighbours.
Gahlot described Sharif’s address as “absurd theatrics,” reiterating that Pakistan’s glorification of terrorism is central to its foreign policy.
During his speech, Sharif called for a “composite, comprehensive, and result-oriented” dialogue with India regarding all unresolved issues, particularly the situation in Kashmir, while reproaching India for its actions in the region.
Sharif expressed gratitude towards Donald Trump, asserting that his involvement played a crucial role in preventing war in South Asia. He stated, “In recognition of President Trump’s wonderful and outstanding contribution to promote peace in our part of the world, Pakistan nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize. This is the least we could do … I think he truly is a man of peace.”
Operation Sindoor commenced on May 7 as a direct retaliation to a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. India targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir during this operation.
India maintains that their understanding on the cessation of hostilities with Pakistan was achieved through direct conversations between the Directors General of Military Operations of both nations.
