THIS is with reference to the report ‘Pakistan mulls response after India points the finger without proof’ and the editorial ‘Pahalgam attack’ (April 24). The recent attack in the India-occupied Kashmir has sent shockwaves through the region and beyond.

The attack has disrupted the fragile peace that had been prevailing along the Line of Control (LoC) for some time. India, in response, has taken an unprecedented series of diplomatic, economic and military decisions, signalling a major shift in its regional policy towards Pakistan.

The timing of the Pahalgam attack is significant. It coincided with multiple high-profile diplomatic events. The Indian prime minister was in Saudi Arabia, while the United States vice-president was visiting India with his family.

These visits were public affirmations of India’s growing economic and geopolitical influence, and that explains why the global reaction has been overwhelmingly supportive of India.

India, due to its robust economy and strong diplomatic alliances, is in a position to withstand prolonged conflict — military or otherwise. Pakistan, in these critical circumstances, must act decisively and wisely. The initial reaction looks reasonable.

Qamar Bashir
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2025