India, April 19 -- On 9 April 2026, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif described Israel as "evil," "a curse for humanity," a "cancerous state," and pronouncing Israel guilty of "genocide." Less than a week later, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt was effusive about the Pakistanis. "The Pakistanis have been incredible mediators throughout this process and we really appreciate their friendship," she wrote. "They are the only mediator in this negotiation." On 16 April, President Donald Trump said, "The field marshal has been great. The Prime Minister has been really great in Pakistan so I might go" to a signing ceremony for any deal.

Trump's comments reflect diplomatic fantasy. It is easy to make a deal; just ask U.S. S...