In the face of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Islamabad is seeking to de-escalate tensions and has taken steps towards talks, sources told CNN-News18. Islamabad is said to be attempting to get a meet with Indian officials as the domestic situation in the country has been termed ‘bad’ and a bid is being made to restore lines of communication with New Delhi.
While there has been no official announcement from either government, indications have been reported of a marked shift in Pakistan’s stance. The nation is now seemingly more inclined towards diplomacy, perhaps acknowledging the seriousness of the present crisis and desiring a peaceful resolution.
The diplomatic effort comes on the heels of a robust military reaction by India. Senior Indian intelligence officials informed CNN-News18 that Indian troops caused significant damage to Pakistani military targets along both the International Border and the Line of Control. The retaliatory action came in response to Pakistan’s supposed unprovoked attack that commenced Thursday evening.
A top source added, “India’s retaliation against Pakistan’s aggression has been 2-3 times more forceful. Indian missiles have nullified key targets along the International Border and the Line of Control for strategic objectives. India’s losses, however, have been few. But we lost one administrative services officer in Rajouri.”
India’s counter-attacks involved precision bombing on some of the major Pakistani military installations. As per Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, “In a rapid and measured response, Indian Air Force conducted precision strikes only on specific military targets. These comprised technical infrastructure, command and control hubs, radar locations and weapons depots.”
Singh also described the exact locations that were targeted: “Pakistan military targets at Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur and Chunia were targeted using air-delivered precision weapons from our fighter aircraft. Radar station at Pasrur and Sialkot aviation base were also targeted using precision munitions. While executing these retaliations, India took minimum collateral damage.”
As events evolve, diplomatic back channels are still working, but both military and strategic moves by the two sides imply a fragile and taut equilibrium that can instantly turn.
