India’s Warning: Modi to Vance— Stronger Strike Than Pakistan

In a high-level phone call on May 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told US Vice President JD Vance that any future attack from Pakistan would be met with a response “more forceful, stronger, more devastating” than anything Islamabad could deliver. This declaration came amid rising tensions following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

Operation Sindoor Launched After Pahalgam Attack

India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting nine terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This came as retaliation for the Pahalgam attack, which killed civilians and tourists. The Indian government communicated clearly with global partners that such terror activities would not go unanswered.

“They Fire, We Fire”: India’s Clear Message

Officials familiar with the situation revealed that India maintained a consistent message after the Pahalgam attack. “They fire, we fire. They stop, we stop,” one official said. India’s leadership made it clear that any attempt to equate victims with perpetrators would no longer be tolerated.

Swift Military Response Left No Time for Interference

When Pakistan attempted to strike 26 Indian military facilities on May 10, India responded swiftly with long-range weapon strikes on eight Pakistani air bases. The rapid and powerful response reportedly left no time for diplomatic interference. Hours later, both countries agreed to halt further military actions.

Direct Communication Preferred Over Back Channels

After the Indian strikes, Pakistan reached out to the US, expressing willingness to de-escalate. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio conveyed this to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. However, India insisted that any de-escalation must come through direct communication, rejecting third-party diplomacy.

No Support for Pakistan from West Asian Countries

Despite shuttle diplomacy from countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran, Indian officials observed that West Asian nations largely understood India’s position. There was no evidence of a united Islamic front in favor of Pakistan, and the OIC resolution even condemned terrorism in the context of Jammu and Kashmir.

China’s Predictable Support for Pakistan

India was not surprised by China’s support for Pakistan, including its military assistance during recent skirmishes. China’s alignment with Islamabad, calling it an “ironclad brother,” remained unchanged during the conflict.