The recent US-brokered ceasefire between Pakistan and India has brought a temporary halt to hostilities, but sustainable peace in South Asia requires much more than a pause in conflict. Rebuilding trust between the two nuclear-armed neighbours will demand genuine political will, sustained dialogue, and a departure from the combative rhetoric that has dominated recent narratives—particularly from New Delhi.
US President Donald Trump’s suggestion that both countries “go out and have a nice dinner together” might have been offered in jest, but it highlights a deeper truth: diplomacy, not war, must define future relations. Unfortunately, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech following the ceasefire indicates a continuation of aggressive posturing rather than a pivot toward peace. His assertion of a “new normal,” in which India reserves the right to carry out military strikes in Pakistan, is deeply troubling and counterproductive. This stance seems to be aimed at appeasing domestic critics who are uncomfortable with American mediation rather than establishing a foundation for peace.
India’s insistence on focusing the dialogue solely on terrorism and Azad Kashmir reflects a narrow and one-sided agenda. If India demands to talk about terrorism, it must also be willing to address credible concerns about its own actions, including alleged efforts to destabilize Pakistan through covert means. True dialogue must be comprehensive and reciprocal.
Furthermore, Kashmir—an internationally recognized dispute—must be addressed in its entirety, not just parts of it. India’s political leadership, often citing the 1972 Simla Accord to reject third-party mediation, should recall that the agreement prohibits unilateral alterations to the status quo. Yet, the BJP government’s unilateral abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to held Kashmir, has done precisely that. This move has intensified tensions and eroded the already fragile framework for negotiations.
New Delhi’s disregard for both bilateral commitments and international concerns signals a troubling trajectory. The region cannot afford a prolonged cycle of confrontation. Instead, both nations must work to de-escalate tensions through confidence-building measures. These could include restoring diplomatic ties, facilitating people-to-people exchanges, and ensuring transparent communication channels during crises.
A crucial step India can take is to fully honor the Indus Waters Treaty. Water is a lifeline for Pakistan, and any attempt to manipulate its flow as a tool of coercion would not only violate international agreements but also escalate tensions further.
The idea of a “new normal” should not be defined by militarism but by mutual respect and diplomacy. A peaceful South Asia is not only possible—it is essential for the prosperity and stability of over a billion people.
