Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on Hindu tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, resulting in 26 fatalities. Both nations have exchanged accusations, with India blaming Pakistan-based militants and Pakistan denying involvement. Diplomatic relations have deteriorated, and both countries have expelled each other’s nationals. The situation has raised concerns about the possibility of military conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
Pakistan’s Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, has warned of an imminent Indian military strike within 24 to 36 hours, citing “credible intelligence.” In response, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted operational freedom to the military to retaliate, emphasizing the need to deliver a strong blow against terrorism and holding Pakistan responsible for the attack. Cross-border shelling along the Line of Control in Kashmir has persisted for days, further heightening tensions.
A comparative analysis of the military capabilities of both nations reveals significant differences. India maintains a substantial advantage in defense personnel, with 1.4 million active members compared to Pakistan’s 700,000. On land, India possesses 9,743 artillery units and 3,740 main battle tanks, surpassing Pakistan’s 4,619 artillery pieces and 2,537 tanks. The Indian Air Force leads with 730 combat aircraft, while Pakistan has 452. In naval strength, India fields 16 submarines, 11 destroyers, 16 frigates, and two aircraft carriers, whereas Pakistan has eight submarines and 10 frigates. Both countries have nearly equivalent nuclear arsenals, with India holding 172 warheads and Pakistan 170. These figures underscore the potentially high stakes of any military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Despite these disparities, analysts caution against underestimating Pakistan’s military capabilities and resolve. Pakistan has declared readiness to defend itself, including the potential use of nuclear weapons if its existence is threatened. The situation remains volatile as diplomatic and military stakeholders navigate escalating rhetoric and regional security concerns.
International actors, including the United States, China, Gulf states, the G7, and the United Nations, have urged de-escalation amidst broader global instability. The U.S. has expressed concerns over the growing hostilities between the two nations and has called for both sides to re-establish communication and maintain regional peace. The international community emphasizes that further conflict in South Asia is undesirable and could have far-reaching implications.
