Rahul Gandhi questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence over U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of mediating peace between India and Pakistan. Gandhi suggested that Modi’s reluctance to dismiss Trump’s assertions raised concerns about transparency and accountability.
The controversy began after the April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that killed 26 people. In response, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan. Heavy cross-border shelling followed, killing at least 22 Indian civilians and eight defense personnel. After four days of fighting, India and Pakistan agreed on May 10 to stop firing.
During the crisis, Trump claimed 29 times that he pressured both nations into a ceasefire. He said he even threatened to cut off trade if they refused. New Delhi rejected his version of events. Gandhi, however, pressed Modi to clearly state whether Trump’s statements were false. “The prime minister has not said that Trump is lying. It is obvious what has happened. Everyone knows he is not able to say it. That is the reality,” Gandhi told reporters outside Parliament. He added, “If he is lying… let the prime minister say he is lying. If he has the courage of Indira Gandhi, let him say here that Donald Trump is a liar.”
In Parliament, Gandhi highlighted the importance of transparency in handling international conflicts. He urged Modi to clarify the government’s position. Modi responded in the Lok Sabha, saying no foreign country, including the U.S., pressured India to end its military operations. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that Modi and Trump had no communication during the strikes in Pakistan.
At the same time, trade negotiations between India and the U.S. continued. Trump recently warned that if both sides failed to reach a deal by the August 1 deadline, India could face tariffs of 20% to 25%. He said the final rate remains undecided as both nations push for fair terms.
The mix of military conflict, political disputes, and trade talks shows the complexity of India’s ties with Pakistan and the United States. The outcomes could affect millions across South Asia. Gandhi’s remarks stressed the need for transparency at a time when regional security and economic stability remain at risk.
