In his first public remarks since the recent U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India has only “paused” its military operations and will retaliate on its own terms if another terrorist attack occurs on Indian soil. Modi’s address came after both India and Pakistan confirmed no overnight firing along the heavily militarized border for the first time in days, signaling a temporary halt to escalating hostilities.
The tensions flared after a brutal terrorist attack on tourists in Kashmir, which India blamed on Pakistan-backed militants, a charge that Islamabad vehemently denied. The violence brought the two nuclear-armed nations to the brink of broader conflict, raising global alarm about regional stability.
Addressing the nation, Modi emphasized India’s red lines clearly: “Terror and talks can’t go together. Nor can terror and trade.” He added that if dialogue with Pakistan were to happen, it would be limited to issues of terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). He dismissed any broader negotiations and made no mention of U.S. President Donald Trump’s mediation offer, underscoring India’s firm diplomatic stance.
Meanwhile, Pakistan celebrated the ceasefire in cities like Lahore, framing its acceptance as a move in the “spirit of peace.” Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a meeting with the Turkish ambassador, reiterated that Pakistan will not tolerate any violations of its sovereignty or territorial integrity.
On Monday, senior military officials from both sides engaged via a hotline, discussing the status of the ceasefire and agreeing not to initiate any aggressive action. According to the Indian Army, the night passed peacefully across Jammu and Kashmir and other border regions, and no new incidents were reported. Both nations also expressed intent to consider reducing troop presence in forward areas, aiming to de-escalate tensions further.
In a positive development, Pakistan reopened its airspace and resumed all flight operations, while India restored 32 airports across its northern and western sectors that had been shut during the conflict. Pakistani military spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif stated that while Pakistan remains committed to the ceasefire, it will not be the first to break it.
Despite the temporary calm, Modi made it clear that India remains vigilant, monitoring Pakistan’s every move. The message from New Delhi is unequivocal: any future attack will be met with decisive and preemptive action, and the “new normal” defined by Operation Sindoor remains firmly in place.
