Support US Against Iran, Ditch China-Russia For Arms: Trump's Major Offer To Pak Army Chief Munir — Report

In a high-stakes diplomatic meeting, United States President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, for a private luncheon at the White House on Wednesday. According to top diplomatic sources cited by CNN-News18, the meeting was far from ceremonial, involving weighty proposals aimed at shifting the regional power dynamic.

Trump Asks Pakistan to Side With US on Iran

Amid rising fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East, Trump has reportedly asked Pakistan for unconditional strategic and military cooperation. “If the US goes to war with Iran, we want Pakistan on our side,” a senior diplomatic source in Washington told CNN-News18. The request allegedly includes access to Pakistani air bases, logistical support on the ground, and possibly naval routes, positioning Pakistan as a key regional player.

Following the luncheon, Trump told reporters, “Pakistan knows Iran better than most. They’re not happy with what’s happening. They’re not bad with Israel either. They know both sides.” He added that Munir “understood the stakes involved.”

US Offers Advanced Arms and Financial Assistance To Pakistan

In return for Pakistan’s support, Trump has pledged unprecedented access to American defence technologies, including fifth-generation stealth jets and sophisticated missile systems. The package, viewed as a strategic counter to Pakistan’s increasing military ties with China, also includes substantial financial aid.

The US President also suggested new trade and security agreements with Pakistan, hinting at an expanded counterterrorism partnership. Notably, Pakistan is scheduled to receive Chinese J-35A fighter jets and air defence systems later this year.

‘Distance Pakistan From China and Russia’, Says Trump

Trump used the opportunity to send a clear message: Islamabad should 'distance' itself from Russia and China. He reportedly urged Munir to steer clear of Eastern groupings such as BRICS and instead realign with the US-led global security framework. A source close to the US administration told News 18, “We want our old partner back.”

Trump further offered to mediate in India-Pakistan issues, stating, “These are two big nuclear powers. We don’t want another war. I thanked Field Marshal Munir for not going to war with India. That could’ve been nuclear.”

He praised the leaders of both nations, saying, “They were both here… I’m so happy that two smart people… decided not to keep going with that war. That could have been a nuclear war.”

Pakistan On Trump’s Role in Ceasefire With India

According to a statement by Pakistan’s army, the meeting—initially scheduled for an hour—was extended to over two hours and included discussions on trade, economic development, mining, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, energy, and emerging technologies. Trump was accompanied by US Secretary of State Senator Marco Rubio and Special Representative for Middle Eastern Affairs Steve Witkoff. Munir was joined by Pakistan’s National Security Advisor, Lt Gen Asim Malik, who also heads the ISI.

The statement added that Trump “expressed keen interest in forging a mutually beneficial trade partnership with Pakistan based on long-term strategic convergence and shared interests.” Munir conveyed the “deep appreciation of the government and people of Pakistan” for Trump’s “constructive and result-oriented role” in helping facilitate a ceasefire with India. He also invited Trump to visit Pakistan at a mutually convenient date.

India Maintains No Mediation Stance

On the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump were scheduled to meet, but the latter returned to Washington early. Modi instead held a 35-minute phone conversation with Trump.

In a video statement from Kananaskis, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Modi conveyed that “at no point” during India’s military operation “Operation Sindoor” was there any discussion about a trade deal with the US or any offer of mediation. Misri emphasised that communication to de-escalate the conflict occurred directly between India and Pakistan through military channels at Islamabad’s request, and India “will never accept the mediation of a third party,” a position supported by all Indian political parties.

Earlier, Trump had claimed, “This man was extremely influential in stopping it from the Pakistan side,” referring to Munir and his role in ending the four-day conflict that began after India launched Operation Sindoor in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.

India and Pakistan agreed to halt hostilities on May 10, following intense cross-border drone and missile strikes, marking what some analysts say could be the most significant shift in US-Pakistan ties since the post-9/11 alliance.