Pakistan has demonstrated admirable restraint in response to India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and severing of diplomatic ties following a terrorist attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
As Indian media continues to sound the drums of war, Islamabad’s measured and reciprocal approach stands in marked and welcome contrast, underscoring the country’s maturity in international relations. Rather than mirroring India’s hostility, Pakistan’s policy of proportionate reciprocity has sent a clear, calibrated message that does not violate any international norms or treaties. Apart from scaling down diplomatic ties, Pakistan has rejected the unilateral suspension of the water accord, reserved the right to suspend bilateral treaties, and denied airspace access to Indian-owned and operated airlines.
These steps are all within Pakistan’s sovereign rights, significantly disrupting Indian airline operations by increasing flight times and inflicting financial losses in the form of additional fuel costs. This is a powerful signal of resolve, not aggression. Pakistan’s commitment to defending its interests with dignity is especially notable give Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ominous hinting of further action.
The situation remains tense. Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s domestic political dynamics will continue to drive its aggressive posture. Over the coming weeks and months, Pakistan must take care to not fall into a trap of escalating retaliation, exercising strategic restraint to enhance its credibility on the world stage. The shelving of the controversial Cholistan canals project further highlights the government’s recognition of the importance of national unity in this testing time.
Going forward, Pakistan must continue walking the fine line between defending its sovereignty and avoiding regional destabilization. If it can sustain the messaging of its current response, Pakistan may well set a model for future crises: firm, thoughtful and principled. Kneejerk reactions can too often spiral into conflict. Choosing maturity is not weakness—it is wisdom.