The United States under President Donald Trump has often been seen as more attentive to India’s security concerns, especially regarding terrorism. With India vowing military action against Pakistan following the horrific Pahalgam terror attack, a big question looms: Will the Trump administration fully back India?
The answer isn’t straightforward. While the US has expressed strong solidarity with India, its stance on potential military retaliation is layered and complex.
Promises of US Support for India After the Pahalgam Attack
Top US officials have been quick to offer their support to India, showing solidarity after the tragic events in Pahalgam.
Key highlights:
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Tulsi Gabbard, US Director of National Intelligence, took to social media platform X to strongly condemn the attack, describing it as a “horrific Islamist terrorist attack.”
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Gabbard expressed full support for India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, affirming that the US stands with India in its pursuit of justice.
Gabbard’s Message at a Glance:
| Official | Platform | Key Message |
|---|---|---|
| Tulsi Gabbard | X (formerly Twitter) | Condemned attack; offered prayers and full support to India and PM Modi |
She wrote:
“We stand in solidarity with India… My prayers and deepest sympathies are with those who lost a loved one, PM Modi, and all the people of India. We are with you and support you as you hunt down those responsible.”
What Other US Leaders Said
Other senior officials have also weighed in, although with slightly more diplomatic caution.
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Tammy Bruce, spokesperson for the US State Department, carefully avoided commenting on the India-Pakistan border tensions.
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She reiterated the US’s strong condemnation of terrorism but stopped short of endorsing any military response.
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President Trump personally called PM Modi to express condolences and offer support in hunting down the perpetrators.
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Vice President JD Vance echoed similar sentiments, offering US cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.
Snapshot of US Reactions:
| Official | Position | Reaction |
|---|---|---|
| Tammy Bruce | US State Dept. Spokesperson | Condemned terrorism, avoided direct comment on military action |
| President Donald Trump | US President | Called PM Modi, offered full support |
| Vice President JD Vance | US Vice President | Reached out to PM Modi, offered counterterrorism assistance |
Will the US Back a Military Retaliation by India?
Despite strong emotional support for India, the US’s backing for any military retaliation is not guaranteed.
Here’s why:
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Historical Stance:
Traditionally, the US has always urged restraint and dialogue between India and Pakistan, mindful of their nuclear capabilities. -
Support for Self-Defense:
While the US acknowledges India’s right to self-defense (like it did after the 2019 Pulwama attack), it also warns against actions that could escalate into a broader regional conflict. -
Strategic Concerns:
America’s relationship with Pakistan plays a big role. The US depends on Pakistan for:-
Counterterrorism cooperation
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Intelligence sharing
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Regional stability
Hence, Washington walks a tightrope between supporting India and maintaining ties with Pakistan.
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Expert Insights: What Analysts Are Saying
Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert, pointed out a critical reality in his article for The Times of India:
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The US needs Pakistan’s cooperation for counterterrorism operations against jihadist groups that threaten American interests.
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Because of this reliance, India should not assume Trump would automatically support military retaliation.
Kugelman highlighted:
“The US seeks to balance its partnerships with India and Pakistan. While it firmly condemns terrorism, it simultaneously needs Pakistan to help with regional intelligence.”
FAQs
1. Has the US officially supported India’s military retaliation against Pakistan?
No, while the US has strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack and offered emotional and political support to India, it has not officially endorsed any military action against Pakistan.
2. Why is the US cautious about supporting India’s military action?
The US is cautious because it needs Pakistan’s cooperation for counterterrorism efforts and is concerned about preventing escalation between two nuclear-armed nations.
3. What has President Trump said directly to PM Modi?
President Trump personally called PM Modi to express condolences and assured India of full US support in hunting down the terrorists responsible for the attack.
4. Could US support change if tensions escalate?
It’s possible. The US may continue advocating for restraint and dialogue but could offer more behind-the-scenes support depending on how the situation develops.
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