With the merciless terror attacks on India by Pakistan, India has made an official announcement that any such terrorist attacks in the future will be deemed as Acts of War by Pakistan.
This increased the country’s security strategy as this announcement was made, followed by the increased hostilities as well as the retaliatory attacks between the two neighbouring countries, possessing nuclear arms.
The Attack on Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
Pakistan performed a terrorist attack on India on 22nd April, 2025, at the city of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. As a result of this terror attack, 26 Indian civilians were killed heinously by the armed assailants.
With an investigation, it was found out that these terrorists were connected to Pakistani organisations, including Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. These attacks increased the intercommunal tensions in the country.
Moreover, the witnesses also confirmed that these terrorists targeted Indian civilians based on their religion by asking a simple question: “Are you a Hindu or a Muslim?” and then mercilessly shot the Hindus.
India’s Reaction: A Change in Policy and Military Action
India reacted with an operation known as “Operation Sindoor”. The country targeted 9 terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
These attacks demonstrated the country’s readiness to directly use military force against the alleged attack and threats.
International Reactions and Diplomatic Repercussions
India’s announcement has caused serious diplomatic repercussions. Pakistan promised to react whenever and whatever it chooses and denounced the strikes as unwarranted aggression.
In reprisal, the Pakistan government also closed its airspace, limited trade, and suspended the Simla Agreement.
The escalation has sparked worries about regional stability on a global scale. The UN Secretary-General urged moderation and emphasised the need for communication in averting future hostilities. Through diplomatic channels, the US pushed both countries to return to the bargaining table and defuse the situation.
The International Political Statements
The attack was widely denounced throughout India. The political figures and Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the tragedy “painful and shocking”, promising to hold those responsible accountable.
Residents of the Kashmir Valley expressed their sorrow and rage at the slaughter, sparking protests in a number of communities.
Numerous nations and organisations around the world denounced the incident. Both the European Union and the United Nations condemned the violence in their comments.
Deep concern was voiced by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom on the overt targeting of non-Muslims, including Hindus. India rejected Pakistan’s request for an impartial investigation and denied involvement in the strike.
Risks of Nuclear Escalation and Deterrence
In addition to having nuclear weapons, India and Pakistan have long followed the principle of “no first use”. But with both sides waging aggressive military postures, the current crisis has put this concept to the test.
A major escalation has been caused by India’s missile strikes on Pakistan territory, notably the Nur Khan Airbase close to Islamabad, raising concerns about a possible nuclear conflict.
Any miscalculation or additional escalation, according to experts, may have disastrous effects for the two nations as well as the entire region.
India’s Stern Warning to Pakistan
India sent a strong warning to Pakistan on Saturday amid the escalating tensions after Operation Sindoor: any further terrorist act on Indian territory will be deemed an Act of War, according to reports.
The warning represents a clear red line in reaction to Pakistan’s frequent acts of aggression, such as persistent drone and missile attacks against Indian military and civilian facilities, and is not an escalation.
Despite the Pakistan establishment’s efforts to de-escalate, the situation suggests that any future terrorist assault in India by Pakistan will be interpreted as a war.