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In a recent statement, India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar emphasized that New Delhi has no intention of escalating the ongoing tensions with Pakistan. However, he made it clear that any military attack on India would be met with a robust and decisive response. The declaration comes amid a rapidly intensifying situation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, particularly concerning the disputed region of Kashmir.
India’s Stance on Military Conflict: A Strong but Measured Response
Jaishankar’s remarks come as tensions between India and Pakistan continue to grow following a series of military confrontations. “We do not intend to escalate the situation,” Jaishankar stated firmly, reinforcing India’s position that it does not seek further conflict. However, he added, “If India is attacked, there should be no doubt that the response will be very, very severe.”
This statement follows India’s military operation “Sindhur” conducted on the night of May 7. The operation targeted nine locations in Pakistan and the Pakistani-administered region of Kashmir, where Indian forces reported eliminating approximately 70 militants. Despite India’s claims of striking terrorist targets, Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif insisted that the strikes hit civilian structures, escalating concerns over the potential for further military exchanges.
Pakistan’s Response: Avoiding Escalation but Preparing for Defense
On the Pakistani side, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif responded cautiously to India’s actions, stating that Pakistan does not wish to escalate tensions but will defend itself if necessary. He urged New Delhi to back down from further military actions to avoid exacerbating the situation. “We are not seeking to escalate tensions,” Asif reiterated, but stressed that Pakistan is prepared to respond to any provocations.
The ongoing standoff between the two countries is largely a result of heightened tensions following the terrorist attack on April 22 in the Jammu and Kashmir region, which led to the deaths of several tourists. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, while Islamabad called India’s reaction disproportionate and politically motivated. Following the attack, India took decisive action, shutting off water supplies from the Indus River to Pakistan, which led to further diplomatic friction.
Kashmir and Water Tensions: A Fragile Peace at Risk
The Kashmir dispute, already one of the most contentious issues between India and Pakistan, remains a flashpoint in their bilateral relations. India’s actions in blocking water to Pakistan, along with the military operation, have brought the conflict to a boiling point. Pakistan has warned of the potential for all-out war if these tensions are not addressed and de-escalated immediately.
The water issue, tied to the Indus Water Treaty, has become an increasingly significant point of conflict. With Pakistan relying on the Indus River for a substantial portion of its water supply, India’s move to halt the water flow could exacerbate an already volatile situation. The international community has expressed concern over the possibility of a major conflict in South Asia, particularly given both countries’ nuclear capabilities.
Global Concerns and the Risk of a Larger Conflict
International organizations, including the United Nations, have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and avoid further military escalation. Given the nuclear status of both nations, the stakes are extraordinarily high. The potential for a broader regional conflict has sparked global concerns, with several countries calling for dialogue and peaceful resolution.
As the situation unfolds, the world watches closely, hoping that diplomatic channels will prevail over military action. However, with both nations’ leaders steadfast in their positions, the possibility of peace remains uncertain.
