By Qaiser Nawab, Chairman, Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD)
In the face of unprovoked aggression, Pakistan has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to peace, sovereignty, and regional stability. The recent escalation initiated by India, under the guise of responding to the tragic Pahalgam attack, was met with a measured yet resolute response by Pakistan, reaffirming its stance that while it seeks peace, it will not compromise on its national integrity.
India’s initiation of “Operation Sindoor,” targeting what it claimed were militant hideouts, resulted in significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage within Pakistan. Such actions not only violated international norms but also threatened the fragile peace in the region.
Pakistan’s response was swift and strategic, focusing on neutralizing military threats while avoiding civilian harm—demonstrating its adherence to international law and the principles of proportionality and self-defense as enshrined in Article 51 of the UN Charter.
India’s recent unprovoked aggression against Pakistan was yet another attempt to act as a regional hegemon. But Pakistan’s response was swift, decisive, and powerful — shattering not just Indian military arrogance but also the myth that India is untouchable in South Asia.
From launching precise strikes on Indian military installations to forcing a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Pakistan has sent a clear message: we may be smaller or economically challenged, but we will defend our sovereignty at any cost.
This is also a reminder to the world — especially those watching India’s bullying behavior toward neighbors like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka — that power isn’t just about size or wealth. It’s about resolve. And Pakistan’s conventional strength — in air, land, cyber, and beyond — has proven its unmatched capability.
The escalation drew immediate concern from the global community. The United States, Saudi Arabia, and other international actors played a pivotal role in mediating a ceasefire between the two nations.
This diplomatic intervention underscores the importance of dialogue and the collective responsibility of the international community in maintaining regional peace. As a Pakistani, I could not be more proud of our people, our army, and especially our Air Force, which performed with professionalism, restraint, and remarkable precision.
Pakistan’s resilience was bolstered by the unwavering support of its allies. Azerbaijan’s leadership, media, and people stood firmly with Pakistan in the hour of need, offering their solidarity and moral backing.
This heartfelt show of support reflects the historic and brotherly bond between our two nations, built on shared values of justice, mutual respect, and dignity. We thank the government and people of Azerbaijan for standing on the side of peace and truth.
We also appreciate the leadership of Turkey and China for echoing similar sentiments, calling for restraint, dialogue, and respect for international law. Such principled support reinforces the importance of multilateral partnerships in preserving peace and justice.
This episode will be remembered by India as the day its hegemonic ambitions were checked—decisively.
What happened from Escalation to War to Ceasefire ? Pakistani Perspective
The myth of India’s military superiority was not only challenged but also dismantled. Pakistan’s Armed Forces responded with surgical precision, downing multiple Indian aircraft, neutralizing key military infrastructure, and forcing the return of stability through diplomatic channels.
It’s not the size of the economy or the army alone that defines strength—it’s the will to defend what is just and lawful. India’s attempt to bully its neighbors into submission has backfired, serving as a cautionary tale to other regional actors and reinforcing the idea that respect must be earned, not enforced.
While the ceasefire offers a respite from immediate hostilities, it is imperative for both nations to capitalize on this moment and move toward sustained, structured dialogue. Pakistan has always maintained that peace in South Asia cannot be achieved through aggression or coercion but only through mutual respect, trust-building, and addressing core issues through negotiation.
Pakistan remains committed to peaceful coexistence and believes that mutual respect and understanding are the cornerstones of lasting peace. Dialogue must replace discord; diplomacy must replace danger.
Pakistan’s response to recent provocations reflects its dedication to peace, its respect for international norms, and its unwavering resolve to protect its sovereignty. The events of May 2025 will not be forgotten—not as a tale of confrontation, but as a lesson in strength, unity, and the triumph of national dignity over aggression.
We salute the Pakistan Armed Forces for their valor and professionalism, and we thank our international partners—especially Azerbaijan, Turkey, China, the USA, and Saudi Arabia—for helping steer this crisis away from the edge of war.
Pakistan Zindabad. Long live our defenders. Long live peace.
Qaiser Nawab is the Chairman of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD) and a global advocate for peace, climate action, and regional cooperation.
