New Delhi: Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, India launched Operation Sindoor, delivering a decisive blow to both the Pakistani establishment and the terrorist networks operating from its soil. The swift and forceful response triggered a series of military engagements between India and Pakistan, during which India’s assertive stance brought its western neighbour to the brink of capitulation.
In a familiar turn of events, Pakistan, facing mounting pressure and losses, sought refuge in the diplomatic corridors of Washington, appealing to the United States for mediation. Despite Islamabad’s overtures, de-escalation was only achieved after direct negotiations with New Delhi, culminating in a ceasefire agreement. However, in a breach of trust that echoes past patterns, Pakistan violated the ceasefire within four hours of its announcement.
Pak’s Washington refuge
This is far from unprecedented. Historically, every time Pakistan has faltered in military confrontations with India, it has turned to the United States for intervention. Notably, in the 1999 Kargil conflict, Pakistan’s infiltration into Indian territory was met with a robust counteroffensive by India. Despite international pressure, including that from the United States, then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government stood firm, ensuring the integrity of Indian sovereignty.
When US almost came to Pak’s help
Such behaviour from Islamabad was also evident during the 1971 war, when Pakistan implored Washington to dispatch the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet into the Bay of Bengal to deter India’s advances. The request, conveyed by then-President Yahya Khan shortly after the onset of hostilities, did result in the deployment of American naval forces. Yet, this move failed to alter the course of the war, which ultimately led to the creation of Bangladesh as a sovereign nation.
Earlier still, during the 1965 war, Pakistan attempted to annex Kashmir. At the time, the United States provided Islamabad with military and financial assistance. Even so, the war ended unfavourably for Pakistan, which was forced to cede several territories to India.
