Trump claims he threatened 200% tariffs on India, Pakistan to de-escalate conflict

US President Donald Trump has claimed that he threatened to impose 200% tariffs on both India and Pakistan during a period of heightened military tensions, asserting that his intervention helped de-escalate the situation between the two nuclear-armed nations.

Speaking at a ‘Board of Peace’ event on Thursday, Trump said that fighter planes were being shot down during the conflict and that he pressed both sides to step back. “I said, listen, I’m not doing trade deals with you two guys if you don’t settle this up,” Trump said. “If you fight, I’m going to put 200% tariffs on each of your countries.” He emphasised that India and Pakistan were “two nuclear nations”.

The inaugural meeting was attended by representatives from more than 40 countries, including Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. India was represented by Deputy Ambassador to the US Namgya Khampa.

Trump also made remarks on the Middle East, declaring that “the war in Gaza is over” and stating that the world was now waiting on Hamas to fulfil commitments, including surrendering weapons. He warned that failure to comply would result in harsh consequences.

He claimed that the ceasefire, which began last October, had continued and all remaining hostages had been returned. “Every last remaining hostage, both living and dead, has been returned home,” Trump said, adding that 28 hostages had been brought back.

Announcing financial commitments towards Gaza relief efforts, Trump said several countries — including Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the UAE, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait — had collectively contributed more than $7 billion. He added that the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance was raising $2 billion, while FIFA would contribute $75 million for projects in Gaza.

Trump said the United States would make the largest pledge. “The United States is going to make a contribution of $10 billion to the Board of Peace,” he stated, describing it as modest compared to the cost of war.

He further noted that countries such as Albania, Kosovo, and Kazakhstan had committed troops and police to help stabilise Gaza, while Egypt and Jordan were providing training and support for a Palestinian police force.

Trump’s remarks have drawn attention internationally, particularly his claims regarding mediation between India and Pakistan and his strong stance on tariffs as a diplomatic tool.