In a recent address, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized a resolute stance against any future “terrorist attacks” following a period of heightened military tension with neighboring Pakistan. The remarks were made after four days of intense exchanges involving artillery and aerial operations between the two nations.
Modi stated, “This is not an era of war, but this is also not an era of terror,” reflecting the gravity of the situation that escalated after a militant assault in Indian-administered Kashmir resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals. India has attributed this attack to a group based in Pakistan, which Islamabad has vehemently denied supporting.
Ceasefire Agreement and Vigilance
The ceasefire brokered by the United States over the weekend seems to be holding, with both countries remaining on high alert. Modi warned, “If another terrorist attack against India is carried out, a strong response will be given.” Furthermore, he noted that, “Terror and trade talks cannot happen together,” likely referencing previous comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the need for peace before economic discussions.
He also made a poignant remark, saying, “Similarly, water and blood cannot flow together,” which relates to the suspension of a crucial water treaty between the two countries.
Military Discussions and Border Tensions
In the wake of the ceasefire announcement, high-ranking military officials from both India and Pakistan convened to discuss the nuances of the truce. The Indian army reported that both sides agreed to avoid aggressive maneuvers and consider immediate troop reductions near the borders.
Trump commented on the ceasefire, stating, “It was time to stop the current aggression that could have led to the death and destruction of so many, and so much.” In a sign of easing tensions, India has reopened 32 airports that had previously been closed due to safety concerns.
The recent flare-up is merely the latest chapter in the long-standing rivalry between India and Pakistan, which has seen two wars fought over the disputed Kashmir region. Both nations have reported casualties in the wake of the recent hostilities, with each claiming military successes.
On May 7, India announced it had targeted nine sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir as a retaliatory measure for the April 22 militant attack. Subsequently, both nations exchanged accusations of cross-border shelling and claimed to have downed each other’s aircraft.
As the conflict unfolded, India asserted that it struck 11 Pakistan Air Force bases, including one near Islamabad, and reported significant enemy casualties. Conversely, Pakistan acknowledged that some Indian munitions landed on its military installations.
While India claimed to have eliminated over 100 militants in targeted strikes, Pakistan contended it had also struck multiple military sites in India. Furthermore, Pakistan alleged that its drones had operated over New Delhi, which India has neither confirmed nor denied.
Despite the escalating rhetoric, both governments continue to navigate a precarious situation, with Modi’s government reiterating its readiness to respond decisively to any threats to national security.