Kathrine Frich
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has responded forcefully to recent military clashes with Pakistan,
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has responded forcefully to recent military clashes with Pakistan,
He declared that any future dialogue will only be about one issue: terrorism.
His remarks come days after a deadly cross-border conflict and a fragile ceasefire negotiated with U.S. assistance.
Modi Draws a Hard Line: No Talks Without Terror Crackdown
Modi made it unmistakably clear in his Monday speech: India will only engage with Pakistan if terrorism is the central topic.
Referencing Pakistan-administered Kashmir, he said discussions would focus solely on Islamabad’s role in supporting extremist activity.
“If we talk,” he said, “it will only be about Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. And only about terrorism.”
Violence Erupts After Kashmir Tourist Attack
The current flare-up began with a brutal attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 Hindu pilgrims.
India swiftly blamed Pakistan-backed militants, while Islamabad denied any involvement.
The response from New Delhi was immediate and forceful, a wave of strikes across the border.
India Launches Retaliatory Strikes in Pakistan-Administered Territory
In a major escalation, India launched nine air and drone strikes against what it called “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan and the contested Kashmir region.
Pakistani officials claimed civilians were hit, but India insists the strikes were precise and aimed only at militant targets.
Trump Announces Ceasefire After Days of Cross-Border Attacks
Following four days of missile and drone exchanges, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire on Saturday, which both sides have observed so far.
Trump claimed credit for the breakthrough, suggesting that trade incentives had played a key role in convincing both nations to stand down.
U.S. Mediation Welcomed by Pakistan, Ignored by India
While Pakistan publicly thanked Washington for helping to de-escalate tensions, India has been silent on America’s role.
This aligns with New Delhi’s policy of opposing third-party mediation in its disputes with Pakistan, a principle it has held for decades.
Borders Closed, Trade Frozen Despite Ceasefire
Although active fighting has paused, bilateral relations remain frozen.
Trade is suspended, and both countries continue to enforce border closures and other restrictions, reflecting how deep the mistrust still runs.
Military Officials Speak
Military chiefs from both countries held a phone call Monday to discuss the ceasefire.
According to Indian media, the talks focused on preventing further escalation.
However, no new agreements were reached, and existing trade and diplomatic suspensions remain in place.