Basim Reza: India's aggressive rhetoric could trigger new round of tensions with Pakistan

The durability of the peace between Pakistan and India remains in question as New Delhi continues to engage in aggressive rhetoric towards Islamabad, Pakistani political scientist Basim Reza told Report.

"The durability of peace remains in question, particularly in light of statements from the Indian side - especially those from Prime Minister Modi - which indicate volatility. He reiterated a narrative strikingly similar to the one espoused prior to the eruption of the crisis. This continuity is deeply concerning given the nuclear capabilities of both states," the political scientist noted.

"Modi’s reaffirmation of India’s purported right to conduct unilateral strikes against Pakistan in response to any future terror attacks - without substantiated evidence, as seen after Pehalgam - is particularly alarming. The normalization of missile strikes, drone warfare, and cross-border airstrikes has introduced a dangerously unstable dynamic to regional security," he added.

The recent air engagements, involving over a hundred fourth-generation and above fighter aircraft, mark an unprecedented development in the realm of modern combat aviation, according to Basim Reza.

"Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunders and J-10s, equipped with Chinese PL-15 air-to-air missiles, decisively outmaneuvered Indian Air Force strategies. Looking ahead, the region faces renewed instability, driven primarily by a fascist regime in India now hostage to the very ultra-nationalist narratives and public pressures it engineered for electoral gains. If this instability endures, it will inevitably have implications not only for regional peace but also for global strategic calculus."

Relations between Pakistan and India worsened in late April. India launched several military attacks on civilian and military targets in Pakistan during May. The two countries declared a ceasefire on May 10.