WASHINGTON (The Pak Global Pakistan) — A leading US magazine, Foreign Affairs, has reported that India’s long-standing claim of being a strong and dependable strategic partner of the United States is increasingly being questioned following recent diplomatic developments.
According to the magazine’s latest analysis, relations between Washington and New Delhi have entered one of their most difficult phases in decades, particularly after the Pakistan–India ceasefire reached in May 2025. Pakistan publicly acknowledged and praised US President Donald Trump’s role in facilitating the ceasefire, while India firmly rejected any notion of American mediation.
Foreign Affairs noted that repeated references by the US President to Pakistan’s diplomatic and military achievements, along with his warm engagement with Pakistan’s leadership, have caused notable diplomatic discomfort for India. Tensions were further heightened when the US President declined to sign a proposed trade agreement with New Delhi and imposed additional tariffs on Indian exports, dealing another blow to bilateral ties.
The magazine observed that these developments have fueled a growing perception within US policy circles that India may no longer be viewed as a fully reliable strategic partner. Analysts argue that if India allows relatively minor diplomatic disagreements to significantly disrupt relations, it raises concerns about New Delhi’s confidence and long-term stability as an ally.
Experts also highlighted that the fragility of a relationship spanning nearly 25 years — one built largely on political rhetoric and strategic messaging — exposes deeper institutional weaknesses in the partnership.
Additionally, analysts stated that the Pakistan–India ceasefire was achieved through US intervention at India’s own request. However, due to domestic political considerations, India has avoided acknowledging Washington’s role. The core issue, analysts say, is not opposition to American mediation, but India’s determination to retain full control over the diplomatic narrative.
The report further pointed out a clear contradiction in India’s foreign policy approach: while rejecting US mediation on regional disputes, New Delhi simultaneously seeks unwavering American support in its strategic competition with China.
According to Foreign Affairs, this inconsistency has further complicated US–India relations and intensified doubts in Washington regarding the future direction of the partnership.
