Escalation, deterrence and diplomacy

Authors

Mariam Khan

Article Type

Article

Description

The May 2025 India-Pakistan conflict highlighted the risks of escalation, deterrence, and strategic misadventures in South Asia. India launched unprovoked missile and airstrikes in Pakistan, citing the Pahalgam attack, but international law deemed these actions unlawful. The Pakistan Air Force successfully repelled the strikes, downing seven Indian jets, and Pakistan launched counter-operations targeting military sites in India and Indian-occupied Kashmir. Experts highlight that both nations exercised limited deterrence, avoiding full-scale civilian casualties. The conflict underscored Kashmir and the Indus Waters Treaty as enduring flashpoints, while Pakistan leveraged diplomacy and strengthened military deterrence. Analysts warn that ongoing doctrinal shifts in India could destabilize regional security and necessitate careful strategic management.

Publication Source

The News International

Publication Date

12-28-2025

Pages

24

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