Trump: India-Pakistan in 1000-Year Kashmir Feud

Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently described the long-standing tensions between Pakistan and India over Kashmir as a "1000-year rivalry."
His remarks have reignited global discussion around one of the most volatile and complex geopolitical issues in South Asia.

In this article, we break down Trump's comments, historical context, international reactions, and what this could mean for future India-Pakistan relations.

• Trump calls the India-Pakistan Kashmir dispute a "1000-year rivalry."

• Kashmir conflict dates back to the 1947 Partition.

• International community urges peaceful resolution.

• Trump offered mediation during his presidency.

• Fresh concerns about rising tensions in the region.

Speaking at a public event, Donald Trump remarked:

"You’re talking about a rivalry that could last 1000 years. India and Pakistan have a complicated history, especially over Kashmir."

Trump emphasized the deep-rooted nature of the Kashmir issue and pointed out the difficulty in finding a quick resolution due to historical, religious, and territorial complexities.

• 1947 Partition: When British India was divided into India and Pakistan, princely states like Kashmir were given a choice to join either nation.

• Kashmir's Ruler: The Maharaja of Kashmir chose to accede to India, leading to the first India-Pakistan war.

• Multiple Wars: India and Pakistan have fought three major wars over Kashmir (1947, 1965, and 1999).

• Current Status: Today, Kashmir is divided into Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Both nations claim the region in full but control only parts, fueling constant tension.

During his presidency, Trump offered to mediate the Kashmir conflict multiple times:

• Claimed that Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan requested U.S. mediation.

• India firmly rejected any third-party mediation, maintaining Kashmir as a bilateral issue.

• Despite no formal role, Trump's offers highlighted global concerns over potential escalation between two nuclear-armed neighbors.

• Abrogation of Article 370: In 2019, India's move to revoke Kashmir's special status (Article 370) sparked outrage in Pakistan and international debates.

• Lockdowns and Curfews: Following the move, Kashmir witnessed curfews, communication blackouts, and heavy military presence.

• Cross-Border Skirmishes: Regular ceasefire violations and militant activities continue along the Line of Control (LoC).

• Diplomatic Efforts: Despite some backchannel talks, a permanent solution remains elusive.

• India’s Position: New Delhi reaffirmed that Kashmir is an internal matter and dismissed the need for foreign mediation.

• Pakistan’s Response: Islamabad welcomed international attention on the Kashmir issue, reiterating calls for a plebiscite as per UN resolutions.

• United Nations continues to advocate for dialogue and peaceful resolution.

• World Powers: Countries like China, Russia, and the European Union emphasize bilateral talks and de-escalation.

Trump’s remark has drawn renewed international focus on the Kashmir crisis, though no immediate diplomatic shifts have occurred.

Several factors make Kashmir one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints:

• Religious Differences: Muslim-majority Kashmir in Hindu-majority India creates cultural tensions.

• Terrorism and Militancy: Militants from Pakistan-administered areas infiltrate into Indian territory, leading to counter-terror operations.

• Nuclear Weapons: Both India and Pakistan possess nuclear arsenals, raising fears of catastrophic escalation.

• Military Build-Up: Heavy deployment of troops on both sides keeps tensions high.

Even a minor incident can rapidly escalate into a major military confrontation.

Experts suggest a few potential scenarios:

• Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs): Minor agreements to reduce tensions (like ceasefire agreements).

• Track-II Diplomacy: Unofficial talks between experts, academics, and retired officials.

• Third-Party Mediation: Although unlikely, countries like the U.S. or the UAE could facilitate indirect dialogue.

• Status Quo: Continued but controlled tensions without major escalation.

Both India and Pakistan have so far maintained strategic restraint, avoiding full-scale war since 1999.

Donald Trump’s comment that India and Pakistan are locked in a '1000-year rivalry' over Kashmir captures the deep complexity and enduring bitterness of this conflict.
While the rivalry has historic roots, the hope remains that diplomatic dialogue, patience, and mutual understanding can one day lead to a lasting peace.