Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for dialogue with India, made during his visit to Tehran, has been unequivocally rejected by New Delhi, which maintains that discussions can only pertain to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir . Sharif, addressing a joint press conference with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressed Pakistan’s readiness to engage with India to resolve longstanding issues, including the Kashmir dispute and water security concerns.
India’s response was swift and resolute. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a public rally in Bikaner, Rajasthan, dismissed the possibility of talks or trade with Pakistan, asserting that the only matter open for discussion is the status of PoK. Modi emphasized that India’s focus remains on eradicating terrorism and that any dialogue is contingent upon Pakistan ceasing support for cross-border militancy.
Tensions between the two nations have escalated following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. India attributes the attack to Pakistan-based militants, leading to retaliatory strikes under “Operation Sindoor” targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan. The operation reportedly resulted in significant casualties and has further strained bilateral relations.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India has taken several punitive measures against Pakistan. These include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a critical water-sharing agreement, and the downgrading of diplomatic ties. Pakistan has condemned these actions, with Sharif warning that any attempt to disrupt the flow of shared rivers could be considered an act of war.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions. Iran has offered to mediate, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visiting Islamabad to facilitate dialogue. The United Nations has also urged both nations to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation.
Despite international calls for de-escalation, India remains steadfast in its position. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated that the only issue to be resolved is the vacation of PoK and the cessation of Pakistan’s support for terrorism. He dismissed Pakistan’s overtures as lacking credibility, given its continued patronage of militant groups.
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