The burgeoning relationship between former US President Donald Trump and Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir has sparked considerable speculation in diplomatic circles. Questions regarding India’s response to the growing US-Pakistan ties were recently answered by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. He characterized the alliance as a self-serving endeavor, devoid of genuine substance.
In his statement, Jaishankar, without directly naming Munir, alluded to historical patterns, suggesting that Pakistan’s actions are often marked by betrayal, while the US is known to capitalize on opportunities. The backing that Trump has given to Munir has begun to show its consequences.
Recent events over the past 48 hours indicate that Munir’s actions are escalating, he has pushed through a bill in Pakistan’s parliament granting the military broad powers of arrest and imprisonment. Additionally, Munir has intensified a campaign to eliminate his opponents, with the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s relatives.
Munir’s actions have also fueled an anti-India agenda, including a plan to influence Bangladesh. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar was dispatched to Bangladesh as an envoy.
Jaishankar pointed out the seeming inconsistencies of the US, a nation that champions democracy and human rights, in overlooking Munir’s alleged schemes. He attributed this to Trump’s self-interest, focusing on personal gain and potentially offering Munir concessions in exchange for political favors. Jaishankar emphasized that this US-Pakistan friendship poses no threat to India, given its lack of a strong foundation.
Jaishankar highlighted the historical relationship between the US and Pakistan, including instances where the US overlooked Pakistan’s actions. He referenced the presence of Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad, Pakistan, and the implications of that relationship.
In response to questions, Jaishankar acknowledged that numerous countries made phone calls during the Operation Sindoor, but emphasized that India does not accept any mediation with Pakistan.
Jaishankar’s statements offer a response to both Pakistan and the US, though Munir continues to pursue his strategy centered on domestic oppression, terrorism against India, and using trade as a diplomatic tool, particularly aiming to influence Bangladesh by offering oil deals.
Pakistan seeks to leverage Bangladesh to its advantage, sending Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to meet with Bangladeshi officials, including those from Jamaat-e-Islami, a group with a history of ties to terrorists. Munir’s plan is to turn Bangladesh into a hub for terrorism and anti-India activities.
This includes activating ISI networks in Bangladesh, attempting to make it a base for terrorist activities, and seeking to replace the Bangladeshi army chief with a pro-Pakistan officer. Salahuddin Shoaib Choudhury, a prominent Bangladeshi journalist, claims that this plot was orchestrated in the US, where Munir offered Trump control over Bangladesh’s foreign policy in exchange for mineral resources.
Jaishankar emphasized that India’s interests come first, asserting that no compromises can be made on farmers’ interests. India is not compelled to buy oil from any specific source, but it is noted that Europe and the US also purchase oil from various sources.
Jaishankar’s message to Trump is clear, implying that pressure tactics against India will not succeed. He noted the unconventional approach of President Trump in conducting foreign policy, which he deemed to be a significant shift and a departure from traditional diplomatic norms.
