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The geopolitical landscape between India and Pakistan remains perpetually fraught with tension, a reality underscored by a recent series of events that have raised alarms across the international community. Following a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which significantly escalated the existing animosity between the two nations, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued a plea to “brotherly countries,” including Saudi Arabia, urging them to impress upon India the critical need for de-escalation and the defusal of hostilities. This appeal, echoed by calls for restraint from the United States and the European Union, aimed to prevent a further deterioration of the already precarious situation. However, subsequent actions by Pakistan appear to contradict its stated desire for peace and stability, casting a shadow of doubt over its sincerity and raising serious questions about its long-term intentions. Central to these concerns is the recent test-firing of the Abdali weapon system, a surface-to-surface missile boasting a range of 450 kilometers. This action, conducted on Saturday, May 3, 2025, is widely perceived as a deliberate provocation, a reckless attempt to goad India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. The timing of the missile test, coupled with other military activities, suggests a calculated strategy by Pakistan to assert its strength and potentially deter any retaliatory actions by India. The Abdali missile test is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader pattern of heightened military activity and aggressive posturing by Pakistan. In the days and weeks following the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan's armed forces have been engaged in a series of exercises near the Line of Control (LoC) and in the Arabian Sea, further exacerbating tensions and raising concerns about the possibility of a miscalculation or accidental escalation. Pakistan has also taken steps to restrict air traffic, closing several routes between Lahore and Islamabad, and has issued multiple navy area warnings along its coastline, actions that suggest a state of heightened alert and a readiness for potential conflict. These measures, while ostensibly defensive in nature, are interpreted by many as a show of force and a deliberate attempt to intimidate India. The Pakistani air force has been particularly active, conducting three distinct exercises – Zarb-e-haidari, Fiza e Badr, and Lalkar e Momin – involving a range of fighter jets, including the F-16, J-10, and JF-17. These exercises, designed to simulate combat scenarios and test the readiness of the air force, send a clear message of preparedness and resolve. Simultaneously, the Pakistani army has been conducting Exercise Hammer Strike near the LoC, a highly sensitive area that has been the site of numerous clashes and skirmishes in the past. This exercise, involving live fire and troop movements, further heightens the risk of confrontation and underscores the volatile nature of the situation. The Pakistani navy has also been engaged in a series of drills in the Arabian Sea, further expanding the scope of the military exercises and demonstrating Pakistan's ability to project power in the maritime domain. These naval exercises, involving warships and submarines, are designed to test the readiness of the navy and to deter any potential threats from the sea.
In addition to these large-scale military exercises, Pakistan has also been accused of repeatedly violating the ceasefire along the Line of Control, a violation that further undermines trust and increases the risk of escalation. These violations, which often involve small arms fire and artillery shelling, have resulted in casualties on both sides and have further strained relations between the two countries. The ceasefire, which was established in 2003, has been repeatedly violated over the years, but the recent increase in violations is particularly concerning. These violations are not only a violation of international agreements but also a dangerous provocation that could easily lead to a larger conflict. The heavy mobilization of military equipment, including artillery, tanks, and other assets, further underscores the seriousness of the situation. Pakistan's recently acquired SH-15 155mm, 52-calibre self-propelled howitzer from China has also reportedly been deployed, adding a new dimension to the military buildup. This advanced artillery system, capable of delivering highly accurate and devastating firepower, significantly enhances Pakistan's offensive capabilities and raises concerns about its potential use in future conflicts. The deployment of this weapon system is a clear indication that Pakistan is preparing for a potential conflict and is willing to invest in advanced military technology to achieve its strategic objectives. The timing of these actions is particularly significant, coming as they do in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. This attack, which claimed the lives of several innocent civilians, has sparked outrage across India and has put immense pressure on the Indian government to take decisive action. The attack has also fueled calls for retaliation and has increased the risk of a military response. In this context, Pakistan's military exercises and provocative actions are seen as a deliberate attempt to test India's resolve and to deter any potential retaliation. The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan and has called on both sides to exercise restraint and to avoid any actions that could further exacerbate the situation. The United States, the European Union, and other countries have urged both sides to engage in dialogue and to find a peaceful resolution to their differences. However, these calls for restraint have so far had little effect, and the situation remains highly volatile. The history of conflict between India and Pakistan is long and bloody, with several major wars and numerous smaller skirmishes having been fought over the years. The two countries have also been involved in a long-running dispute over the disputed territory of Kashmir, which has been a major source of tension and conflict.
The potential consequences of a renewed conflict between India and Pakistan are dire, not only for the two countries themselves but also for the entire region. A war between India and Pakistan could have devastating consequences for the environment, the economy, and the stability of the region. The use of nuclear weapons, even on a limited scale, could have catastrophic consequences for the entire world. The international community must do everything in its power to prevent a renewed conflict between India and Pakistan. This requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes of the conflict and promotes dialogue and cooperation between the two countries. The international community must also be prepared to take decisive action to deter any further escalation of tensions. One of the key challenges in resolving the conflict between India and Pakistan is the lack of trust between the two countries. Decades of conflict and mistrust have created a deep divide that is difficult to overcome. Building trust between the two countries will require a sustained effort over many years. This effort must involve not only government officials but also civil society organizations, business leaders, and ordinary citizens. Another challenge is the involvement of non-state actors, such as terrorist groups, in the conflict. These groups often operate with impunity and are able to undermine peace efforts. Addressing the problem of terrorism will require a coordinated effort by both India and Pakistan, as well as the international community. Ultimately, the only way to resolve the conflict between India and Pakistan is through dialogue and cooperation. The two countries must be willing to engage in serious negotiations and to find a mutually acceptable solution to their differences. The international community can play a supportive role in this process by providing mediation and assistance. The future of the region depends on the ability of India and Pakistan to find a way to live together in peace. A renewed conflict between the two countries would be a disaster for the entire world. It is imperative that the international community does everything in its power to prevent such a catastrophe. As tensions rise and the threat of military confrontation looms large, the international community must stand united in its call for peace and stability in the region. Only through dialogue, cooperation, and a commitment to peaceful resolution can India and Pakistan hope to overcome their differences and build a future of shared prosperity and security.
Source: Pakistan’s Persistent Provocations After Urging World To Ask India To Defuse Tensions