PM Modi highlights counterterrorism efforts, Pakistan rejects allegations and stresses stability
Diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan continue as both nations exchange statements. In an address, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi condemned the recent violent actions and highlighted the country's anti-terrorism efforts, while Pakistan responded by defending its actions and reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire, Kazinform correspondent reports.
Prime Minister Modi condemned the April 22 Pahalgam attack, describing it as a serious act of violence that has drawn concern both nationally and internationally. He noted that the incident appeared aimed at disturbing social harmony. Modi stated that the entire nation, including citizens across communities and the political spectrum, is united in its commitment to addressing terrorism.
“Operation Sindoor is not just a name but a reflection of the emotions of millions of Indians,” Modi said.
He went on to highlight the country’s measured response in recent days, recognizing the role of the armed forces, and praised the efforts of the personnel involved in Operation Sindoor. Modi added that the armed forces have been given operational flexibility and that any threats to national security will be met with “a decisive shift in India’s strategic approach.”
“Operation Sindoor is an unwavering pledge for justice. Operation Sindoor has redefined the fight against terror, setting a new benchmark, a new normal. This is not an era of war, but it is not an era of terrorism either,” he stated, highlighting that “zero tolerance against terrorism is the guarantee of a better world. Terror and talks cannot coexist, Terror and trade cannot go hand in hand and Water and blood can never flow together.”
Modi asserted to the international community that India's engagement with Pakistan will prioritize counterterrorism and issues related to the Kashmir region. However, in response to his remarks, the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement, rejecting India's assertions and reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to the recently agreed upon ceasefire agreement.
“Pakistan remains committed to the recent ceasefire understanding and taking necessary steps towards de-escalation and regional stability. This ceasefire was achieved as a result of the facilitation of several friendly countries which contacted us with a message of de-escalation,” the statement read.
The Pakistani government addressed claims that its actions were motivated by ‘frustration’, saying that the Pahalgam attack was being misrepresented to justify military aggression and divert attention from other concerns, including the situation in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Indian actions set a dangerous precedent for aggression, dragging the entire region to the brink of disaster,” the statement continued.
The Ministry also expressed disagreement with India's characterization of the situation, stressing that India's "new normal" approach risks undermining regional stability.
"Pakistan firmly rejects this assertion. The 'normal' remains that the principles of the UN Charter must be respected, as demonstrated by Pakistan’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and ensuring the security of its people. We will continue to closely monitor India's actions in the coming days and call on the international community to do the same," the Ministry wrote.
The Pakistani Ministry further emphasized the importance of peace and regional stability, urging the international community to prioritize diplomatic solutions. They concluded their statement with a strong assertion:
“In this era, peace is the true strength. The world is not served by theatrical militarism and grandstanding but by mature leadership, regional cooperation, and respect for international norms. Pakistan is a sovereign nation with resilient institutions, a committed populace, and a globally recognized role in maintaining peace and security. Our commitment to peace must never be mistaken for weakness. Any future aggression will also be met with full resolve. We hope India will prioritize regional stability and the well-being of its citizens.”
The exchange follows a series of events that began with the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. In the days that followed, India launched airstrikes under Operation Sindoor on May 7, and by May 10, both India and Pakistan agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire, ending all military action.
