By Sardar Khan Niazi

Recent remarks by U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard have once again drawn attention to South Asia’s enduring security dilemmas. While global narratives often frame Pakistan as the epicenter of instability, such portrayals risk overlooking a more complex–and arguably more consequential–reality. A sober reassessment suggests that the region’s most persistent and escalating threat to peace may in fact; originate from India’s evolving strategic posture. Over the past decade, India has undergone a profound transformation in its domestic and foreign policies. Under an increasingly assertive nationalist doctrine, New Delhi has adopted measures that have raised serious concerns among human rights observers, regional stakeholders, and international analysts alike. The revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status in August 2019 stands as a pivotal moment. This unilateral decision not only intensified tensions with Pakistan but also deepened alienation among the Kashmiri population, fueling unrest and eroding prospects for dialogue. India’s internal trajectory is equally troubling. The rise of majoritarian politics has coincided with growing reports of discrimination against minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians. Such developments are not merely domestic concerns; they have implications for regional stability. A country grappling with internal divisions may be more inclined to externalize tensions, thereby exacerbating conflicts with its neighbors. From a strategic standpoint, India’s military modernization and doctrinal shifts also warrant scrutiny. Its increasing defense expenditures, acquisition of advanced weaponry, and evolving warfighting concepts–such as limited war under a nuclear overhang—introduce new risks in an already volatile environment. These developments challenge the fragile deterrence equilibrium that has prevented full-scale war between two nuclear-armed states despite numerous crises. Pakistan, for its part, has undeniably faced its own challenges, particularly in combating extremism and stabilizing its internal security landscape. However, significant progress has been made in recent years through sustained counterterrorism operations and policy reforms. The international community has acknowledged these efforts, even as it continues to encourage further action. The tendency to view South Asia through a simplistic binary lens–casting Pakistan as the principal source of instability–obscures the broader dynamics at play. It also risks enabling policies that fail to address the root causes of conflict. A durable peace in the region cannot be achieved without recognizing and addressing the policies and actions that contribute to escalation on all sides. For policymakers in Washington and beyond, the imperative is clear: adopt a balanced and evidence-based approach. This entails engaging both India and Pakistan constructively, encouraging dialogue, and prioritizing conflict resolution over strategic alignment. Uncritical support for any one actor may yield short-term gains but will likely undermine long-term stability. Tulsi Gabbard, known for her willingness to challenge conventional narratives, is uniquely positioned to advocate for such a recalibration. By broadening the scope of analysis and acknowledging the multifaceted nature of regional threats, she–and others in positions of influence–can contribute to a more nuanced and effective policy discourse. South Asia stands at a crossroads. The choices made today will shape the region’s future for generations to come. Recognizing where the real threats lie is not merely an academic exercise; it is a prerequisite for peace.