Indian Delegation Meets US Vice President JD Vance to Discuss Operation Sindoor
On June 5, 2025, Indian Parliamentarian and former diplomat Shashi Tharoor led an all-party delegation in a 30-minute meeting with United States Vice President JD Vance in Washington D.C. The meeting, arranged on short notice, focused on the recent operations concerning Operation Sindoor and the broader India-Pakistan conflict situation.
Key Focus of the Discussion
Shashi Tharoor articulated the Indian delegation’s stance on Operation Sindoor, clarifying that the operation was temporarily halted but not concluded. He emphasized that the Indian Armed Forces’ action targeted terrorist bases precisely and distinguished these from Pakistan’s attacks on innocent civilians in forward areas such as Poonch and Uri.
Tharoor reiterated that India would continue such responses whenever faced with aggression, underscoring India's commitment to protecting its territorial integrity.
US Support and Assurance
Vice President JD Vance assured the Indian delegation of strong US support in counter-terrorism efforts. He recognized India’s sovereign right to defend itself and described New Delhi’s actions as logical and justified under the circumstances.
Addressing concerns about nuclear weapons use, JD Vance inquired about the possibility during the ongoing tensions. The Indian delegation reaffirmed India’s “No First Use” nuclear policy, emphasizing that this commitment was both in principle and practice. It was clarified that the recent exchanges of fire remained within the realm of traditional warfare, not escalating to nuclear conflict.
Context and Background
- The delegation stressed that the response was a precise counter-terrorism strike, differentiating it clearly from civilian-targeted attacks by Pakistan.
- The operation’s temporary halt does not imply its end; India maintains vigilance against threats.
- The US expressed steadfast support for India’s counter-terrorism measures and territorial defense.
- The inquiry on nuclear weapon use underscored ongoing international concern but affirmed India’s responsible strategic posture.
Previous claims by a former US administration regarding mediation in ceasefire efforts between India and Pakistan were not acknowledged by India, which attributed the de-escalation to diplomatic outreach initiated by Pakistan.
Conclusion
The prompt and constructive engagement between Shashi Tharoor’s delegation and US Vice President JD Vance highlights the ongoing collaboration between India and the United States in addressing regional security challenges. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of counter-terrorism cooperation and diplomatic dialogue to maintain peace and stability in South Asia.
