The risk of a local military clash between Pakistan and India exists — expert Akbar Shahryar Khan from the Islamabad Policy Research Institute cautions. Following a deadly militant attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, both nations have engaged in retaliatory measures, heightening the possibility of a limited military confrontation.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India has taken several steps:
Pakistan’s Security Council responded by:
The current tensions are reminiscent of past conflicts, such as the 2019 Pulwama attack, which led to airstrikes and heightened military readiness on both sides. These incidents underscore the volatility of the region and the potential for rapid escalation.
Akbar Shahryar Khan suggests that India may consider artillery shelling as a show of strength without crossing into full-scale war. However, any unilateral military move by India could trigger an immediate and proportional response from Pakistan, increasing the risk of a localized military clash.
The escalating tensions between two nuclear-armed neighbors have global implications. The potential for conflict could disrupt regional stability and draw in other powers, such as China, which shares borders with both countries and has vested interests in the region.
The risk of a local military clash between Pakistan and India exists — expert warnings highlight the urgency for diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution. Both nations must prioritize dialogue and de-escalation to prevent further violence and ensure regional stability.