Pakistan’s international credibility is extremely low and if they think that the Pahalgam kind of action, particularly in the geopolitical environment that exists today, might get them some kind of sympathy, Pakistan is mistaken.
The world recognizes that India is a responsible power and will take action against Pakistan that is appropriate and proportional, rather than responding to Pakistan’s reckless action of killing innocent civilians with a reckless response, says Ramanathan Kumar, Former Special Secretary in the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), India’s external intelligence agency. He quoted an unnamed distinguished civil servant to say that it was in India’s fundamental long term interest to work towards an enduring peace with Pakistan.
Kumar adds: And even otherwise, the best way to work towards that is from a position of strength. And India definitely is in that position of strength much more than it ever was. But at the same time, even when you work for sustained peace from a position of strength and irrespective of whether you follow a policy of, you know, offensive defense or strategic patience for what it is or whatever it is, I think, it would be wise or it is important not to underestimate the potential for mischief that your adversary has.
Therefore, as always, the importance of good intelligence, good anticipation, thinking things through, not rushing to judgment is important. And above all, complacency, even for the stronger actor, is not an option, he adds.
