India has only paused military action against Pakistan, Modi says

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025 at 4:47 pm

India Pauses Military Action Against Pakistan, Modi Warns of Retaliation

Tensions between India and Pakistan have eased following a ceasefire brokered by the United States, but Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has signaled that the pause in military action is temporary. In his first address since the recent escalation, which included missile strikes on key military bases and airfields, Modi stated that India would retaliate on its own terms to any future attacks.

The conflict began last week after India launched attacks on Pakistan in response to a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India blamed on Pakistan-backed groups. The situation quickly escalated, involving drone and missile strikes, and heavy shelling along the disputed border.

While both US President Donald Trump and Pakistani officials credited US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance with brokering the ceasefire, Modi made no mention of the US role. He maintained that Pakistan initiated the ceasefire and sought international assistance.

Trump, speaking at the White House, claimed the US intervention prevented a potential nuclear conflict. Modi's speech also addressed the nuclear threat, stating that India would not tolerate "nuclear blackmailing" in any future conflict.

The ceasefire appears to be holding, with cross-border shelling ceasing and 32 Indian airports reopening. Both sides have agreed to reduce troop presence at the border. Future talks are expected to be held in a third country, with the United Arab Emirates suggested as a possible venue. Modi indicated that any future discussions with Pakistan would focus solely on terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

BNN's Perspective: While the ceasefire is a welcome development, the underlying tensions remain. Modi's strong stance suggests a continued readiness for military action, highlighting the fragility of the peace. The involvement of the US, regardless of Modi's acknowledgement, underscores the international concern over the nuclear-armed neighbors. A sustained dialogue, addressing the root causes of the conflict, is crucial for long-term stability.

Keywords: India, Pakistan, ceasefire, Narendra Modi, Donald Trump, Kashmir, military action, nuclear, conflict, border, terrorism, missile strikes, drone strikes, Marco Rubio, JD Vance, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, international relations, diplomacy, war, peace, tensions

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