Trump claims eight planes were downed in Pakistan-India clash

November 6, 2025 — US President Donald Trump has confirmed that eight aircraft were shot down during the May 2025 clash between Pakistan and India, marking one of the most intense military confrontations in recent years.

In an interview with a private TV channel, Trump said several newspapers had reported conflicting numbers about the aircraft losses, but the correct figure was eight.

“One newspaper said seven, another said one was damaged — but the truth is, eight planes were shot down,” Trump stated.

He criticised Western media for spreading false news and confirmed that his administration closely monitored the conflict as it unfolded.

Trump said he personally intervened to prevent the conflict from turning into a full-scale war. He spoke highly of Pakistan’s leadership, saying Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and General Asim Munir showed “great responsibility” in maintaining regional stability.

“I told Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif — both are good men, but Pakistan handled the situation very wisely,” Trump remarked.

He added that Pakistan’s government and military acted with maturity and avoided escalation despite Indian aggression. “They were going at it, but Pakistan was very calm and professional,” Trump said.

The US President claimed that he told both sides no trade or economic cooperation would move forward if they continued fighting. “We said no deals if you’re at war — and within 24 hours, it stopped. That was amazing,” Trump added.

Pakistan’s strong defense in May 2025 conflict

The May 2025 Pakistan-India clash began after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), killed 26 tourists. India blamed Pakistan, but Islamabad firmly rejected the allegations, calling them “baseless and politically motivated.”

In the following days, Indian forces carried out unprovoked attacks across the border, targeting civilian areas. The Pakistan Armed Forces responded with a successful defensive operation named Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, which showcased the strength and precision of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

During the operation, Pakistan downed seven Indian fighter jets, including three advanced Rafale aircraft, and destroyed multiple drones used in Indian surveillance. The clash lasted nearly four days and ended with a ceasefire on May 10, 2025, brokered through diplomatic efforts led by the United States.

Global praise for Pakistan’s professional conduct

International observers and defense analysts acknowledged Pakistan’s measured response. Many praised the professionalism of the Pakistan military and the government’s diplomatic approach that helped avoid a nuclear confrontation.

Trump also highlighted Pakistan’s contribution to regional peace. During a Diwali celebration at the White House on October 22, he said, “We have no war with Pakistan and India. That was a very, very good thing.”

He also called Pakistan’s leadership “very smart and composed,” crediting Islamabad’s willingness to de-escalate for preventing a major disaster in South Asia.

Pakistan stands as a symbol of peace and strength

The May 2025 incident once again proved Pakistan’s resolve to protect its sovereignty while promoting peace. The Pakistan Air Force’s quick and effective response earned international respect, while the government’s diplomatic handling showed Pakistan’s maturity as a responsible nuclear power.

As Trump himself acknowledged, Pakistan’s actions not only defended its borders but also helped avert a potential regional catastrophe.