New Delhi-Islamabad tensions surge after deadly Pahalgam attack
As tensions soar between India and Pakistan following the tragic Pahalgam incident in Indian-administered Kashmir, diplomatic observers are closely monitoring a series of high-level security meetings in New Delhi—raising speculation that India may be preparing for a military response.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently held a 40-minute strategic meeting with Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, sparking widespread speculation in Indian media circles about potential aerial operations. While the Indian government has not issued an official statement, the timing and secrecy surrounding the meeting suggest a response to the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people were killed.
Series of High-Level Defense Meetings Raises Alarms
The Air Force chief’s meeting follows back-to-back consultations between Modi and India’s top military leadership. On April 30, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi met with Modi, joined by Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. A few days later, on May 3, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi also engaged in a one-hour security session with the Prime Minister, reportedly focused on maritime readiness and regional threats.
These sequential meetings culminated in a closed-door national security review at the Prime Minister’s residence. Modi, flanked by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the heads of all three armed forces, reportedly gave a green light for full operational autonomy to military commanders—allowing them to determine the strategy, scale, and timing of any retaliatory actions.
Pakistan Responds with Caution, Issues Stern Warning
In Islamabad, the situation is being treated with high alert. Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, alongside ISPR Director General Major General Ahmed Sharif, is set to brief political leaders on Sunday about emerging national security threats.
Speaking to the media, Minister Tarar warned that any act of aggression by India would be met with a “decisive and proportionate response.” He emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to defend its sovereignty and regional stability, reiterating that Pakistan had offered a credible and transparent investigation into the Pahalgam attack.
Diplomatic Tensions Fuel Regional Uncertainty
The Pahalgam tragedy has already led to diplomatic fallout. India has suspended cooperation under the Indus Waters Treaty, while Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian commercial flights. The rapidly deteriorating relations have triggered fears of a broader conflict, with international observers urging restraint from both nuclear-armed nations.
As the region stands at a crossroads, the coming days will be crucial. Any miscalculation could further destabilize South Asia’s fragile peace.
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