Trump Positions Tariffs As A Tool Of Peace In India–Pakistan Conflict Resolution, Reasserts Controversial Claim

On April 30, 2026, US President Donald Trump repeated his controversial assertion that he used tariff threats to halt hostilities between India and Pakistan. He claimed that his intervention averted a potential nuclear war, highlighting his role as a “peacemaker” who has stopped multiple conflicts worldwide.

Trump’s Claim

Trump stated that during the 2025 conflict, he threatened to impose 200% tariffs on both India and Pakistan if they continued fighting. According to him, this economic pressure forced the two nations to agree to a ceasefire. He further claimed that Pakistan’s Prime Minister thanked him, saying his actions saved 30–50 million lives.

India’s Position

India has consistently rejected Trump’s version of events, maintaining that the ceasefire was achieved through Operation Sindoor, a military response to terror attacks, followed by direct communication between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) of both countries. Indian officials have emphasized that no external mediation was involved.

Pakistan’s Response

Pakistan’s leadership has occasionally echoed Trump’s narrative, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praising him at international forums as a “man of peace.” However, analysts note that such statements may be politically motivated, as Pakistan has historically welcomed external mediation in disputes with India.

Strategic Context

The India–Pakistan conflict in 2025 was marked by aerial skirmishes and the downing of fighter jets, raising fears of escalation. Trump’s claim of resolving the crisis through tariffs fits into his broader narrative of using economic tools as instruments of foreign policy. He has repeatedly asserted that tariffs helped him “settle eight wars” during his presidency.

Key Highlights

• Trump claims he stopped the India–Pakistan war in 2025 using tariff threats
• He says his intervention saved 30–50 million lives and prevented nuclear escalation
• India denies any third-party involvement, citing Operation Sindoor and DGMO talks
• Pakistan’s leadership has occasionally supported Trump’s version of events
• Trump links his tariff strategy to broader claims of ending multiple global conflicts

Sources: India.com, Deccan Chronicle, The Hindu, Economic Times, CNBC TV18