During a US State Department briefing on May 13, 2025, a journalist attempted to question US Department of State Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, suggesting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had rejected peace talks between India and Pakistan brokered by President Donald Trump. The reporter cited Pakistan’s support for Trump’s efforts, even suggesting he could win a Nobel Peace Prize for facilitating peace on the Kashmir issue. However, Pigott quickly sidestepped the question, reiterating that the US administration’s focus remains solely on the ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of direct communication between India and Pakistan.

The reporter’s attempts to delve into deeper political issues, such as Modi’s opposition to the ceasefire and the use of Israeli-made drones by India in “Operation Sindoor,” were also deflected. Pigott reinforced the US stance, stating that the country’s efforts are geared toward maintaining a ceasefire and fostering peace between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. While the journalist referenced Trump’s peacemaking role, the US official maintained a neutral stance, saying the priority is ensuring ongoing peace and dialogue, without addressing the broader political tensions or the drone controversy.

The back-and-forth underscored the geopolitical tensions surrounding the India-Pakistan conflict, particularly with Pakistan’s ongoing attempts to highlight India’s military actions. The situation was further complicated by Pakistan’s reliance on Chinese and Turkish military technology during the conflict. Despite the ongoing friction, Pigott maintained that the US goal is to facilitate direct communication and peace between the nations, refraining from commenting on the intricate details of the military strategies employed by either side.