Despite Pakistan’s continued emphasis on peace and diplomatic engagement, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently made a forceful statement, warning that the Indian Navy would spearhead any military response in the event of renewed conflict with Pakistan. Speaking from the deck of the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, Singh asserted that India’s naval forces would take the lead in future escalations.
His remarks follow one of the most intense military flare-ups between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in recent years. The April confrontation, triggered by a deadly incident in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, involved several days of aerial and drone warfare. A ceasefire, facilitated by U.S. mediation, was reached on May 10.
Singh stated that India halted “Operation Sindoor” on its own terms, suggesting the full capability of the armed forces had yet to be employed. He cautioned that any future “malicious or immoral” actions by Pakistan would be met with overwhelming naval retaliation.
Pakistan, in turn, reiterated its previous warning that any threat to its sovereignty would provoke a “comprehensive and decisive” military response. Islamabad has denied involvement in the April 22 attack, which left 26 people dead, and has called for an impartial international inquiry.
In retaliation for India’s strikes, Pakistan initiated “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” targeting various Indian military installations. Pakistani officials claim their forces downed six Indian aircraft—including three Rafale jets—and numerous drones, while reporting 53 Pakistani casualties, including 40 civilians.
Although both countries have begun scaling down forces along the border, Singh’s aggressive tone has the potential to reignite hostilities. Pakistan maintains that lasting peace in South Asia hinges on dialogue, diplomacy, and adherence to international law.
