🎈Are the Balloons Being Inflated?
Khalidnajeebkhan@gmail.com
(GN Ghalib News – Column by Khalid Najeeb Khan)
The news that President Donald Trump has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize felt, at first, like a satire itself. One person remarked, “He's a president, a businessman, a WWF member — of course, he can be nominated for anything!” The surprising part for many was that the nomination reportedly came from Pakistan.
From day one, Donald Trump has been a controversial figure. He swore an oath to end global interference, pledging “America First” — no more wars, no more global policing. The world listened, some were hopeful, others confused. But Trump’s presidency has been anything but peaceful.
🌍 Ceasefire Confusion and Broken Promises
At the time of Trump’s election, Gaza was already under siege. Hopes were high — perhaps this new president would tell Israel to withdraw and let Palestinians live in peace. Just before Trump’s inauguration, a temporary ceasefire was declared between Gaza and Israel. A wave of optimism spread in the Muslim world.
But that bubble burst quickly. After Trump took office, not only was the Gaza ceasefire shattered, but the bombings intensified. Trump had promised peace — but Gaza faced one of the worst assaults in its history.
🪖 The Ukraine-Russia Chapter
Next, the Ukraine-Russia conflict caught fire. Trump reportedly told Ukrainian President Zelensky, “If you want to fight Russia, do it alone — America is done helping.” Then he shared tea and smiles with Vladimir Putin as if the US had never opposed Russia.
It seemed like Trump’s idea of peace meant letting chaos sort itself out — or worse, letting it grow unchecked.
🔥 Gaza Burned, Pakistan Watched
As Gaza bled, much of the Muslim world looked toward Pakistan for a reaction. But silence echoed from official channels. Meanwhile, religious parties within Pakistan united to issue a fatwa for war against Israel. The streets asked:
“Did we build a nuclear bomb just to launch it at political weddings?”
Before anyone could answer, India attacked Pakistan. This time, Pakistan was ready — and responded with Operation Banyan Marsus, teaching India a lesson it didn't expect.
🤝 Trump Steps In (Again)
Trump then asked both India and Pakistan to immediately cease fire. Just as Pakistan was tallying Indian aircraft losses, Ukraine bombed Russia again. Russia retaliated. And again, Trump’s “peace-through-chaos” formula seemed to echo — but without confirmation or clarity.
🎂 Cake Between Two Cats?
When Pakistan and India sent delegations to the US and Europe, India refused Trump's mediation, while Pakistan hoped for it. One commentator said:
“Trump’s mediation might be like dividing cake between two cats — and eating it himself.”
Then suddenly, Israel attacked Iran, killing top scientists and military leaders. Iran retaliated. For the first time, Israelis witnessed the devastation Gazans had suffered for years. When Israel asked for US help, the result was a botched strike that backfired.
🕊️ The Nobel Surprise
Amid all this chaos, Trump cut short his Canada trip to meet Pakistan’s Army Chief. Hours later, the world learned that Pakistan had officially nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize.
At first, it felt like a meme. But it was true. Was it a reward for asking Israel to ceasefire? Or a political stunt? Some said Israel had no choice but to stop; others claimed Trump had pushed it.
🧨 Who's Blowing the Balloons?
So, where do we stand? Two Islamic nations — Pakistan and Iran — managed to outmaneuver their Hindu and Jewish neighbors in recent conflicts. Now, if they agree to ceasefire, it should be on their own terms, not under pressure.
Because if they bow down to others’ demands, then yes — someone is blowing up their balloons.
No comments: