After deadly cross-border strikes, can India and Pakistan avoid all-out war?

Pakistan’s military has warned that India will face severe consequences following its airstrikes on Wednesday, which resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This has raised concerns about a potential full-scale war between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

India has reported that 16 Indian civilians, including women and children, have also been killed in the shelling by Pakistan across the de facto border in the disputed region of Kashmir. There has been an increase in live fire exchanges across the border overnight.

Despite the ongoing hostilities, both countries have stated that they have exercised restraint, and there are indications that security officials from both sides have initiated communication channels. Experts suggest that international mediation is necessary for de-escalation, along with a mechanism for both countries to claim victory.

The Indian airstrikes were in response to a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, where militants backed by Pakistan allegedly killed 26 people, mostly Indian tourists. Pakistan denies involvement in the attack but claims to have downed Indian fighter jets and drones.

Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, stated that India will continue to face consequences for its aggression, including sending drones into Pakistani airspace. Meanwhile, the U.S. Consulate in Lahore advised personnel to take shelter due to reports of drone activity and possible airspace violations.

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that India does not seek further escalation but will respond firmly to any retaliatory strikes by Pakistan. President Donald Trump expressed a desire for the two countries to resolve their differences, highlighting the need for a peaceful resolution.

The conflict between India and Pakistan, both of which claim Kashmir, has a long history of tension and violence. The recent events have heightened concerns about the possibility of a larger conflict, with experts stressing the importance of international intervention to prevent further escalation.