New normal

It was India’s extreme hubris and their underestimation of Pakistan’s military capabilities that led them to attack Pakistan after the Pahalgam incident. They then got a taste of Pakistan’s air prowess and lost at least five aircraft, including the much-touted French-made Rafale jet. Trained Pakistani technicians used Chinese technology to devastating effect when India attacked again with missiles, rockets and drones. In Pakistan’s retaliatory attack, several Indian bases were completely destroyed. Pakistan’s cyber attacks also crippled many of India’s military, commercial and electric facilities. It was in these conditions that India went scurrying to the US to help stop the war and broker a ceasefire with Pakistan.

Throughout the conflict, the Indian media created new records for mendacity via their fake coverage of the skirmishes with Pakistan. At one point, the audience was led to believe that all the major cities of Pakistan had been destroyed. It is high time for India to come off its high horse and be reasonable in solving their serious disputes with Pakistan, including the Kashmir issue. If India acts aggressively it will always get a bloody nose from Pakistan. That is the new normal now.

Akbar Jan Marwat

Islamabad