Washington, (Tassawar News) U.S. President Donald Trump has once again confirmed that Indian aircraft were shot down during a past military confrontation, reiterating remarks that have previously stirred diplomatic discussions between Washington, New Delhi, and Islamabad.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Trump referenced the incident while addressing regional security in South Asia. “It happened, and our intelligence confirms it,” Trump said, without providing additional details about the timing or context of the downing.
The statement appears to refer to the high-profile military escalation between India and Pakistan in 2019, when Pakistan claimed to have downed two Indian fighter jets following an airstrike in Balakot. While the Indian government acknowledged the loss of one aircraft, it has consistently denied that a second jet was destroyed.
Trump’s renewed remarks are likely to reignite debate over the incident, especially given its sensitive nature in India-Pakistan relations. Analysts note that Washington has generally avoided taking sides in public over the matter, making this reaffirmation unusual.
Indian officials have yet to respond to Trump’s latest comments, but in the past, New Delhi has dismissed similar claims as “unsubstantiated.” Pakistan, meanwhile, has maintained its account and has often cited the episode as proof of its defensive capabilities.
The U.S. State Department did not release an official statement following the president’s comments, leaving it unclear whether this represents a shift in U.S. policy or a personal remark by Trump.
Observers suggest the renewed claim could have implications for diplomatic ties in the region, especially if it prompts fresh exchanges between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
