- Avoid war cries, get rid of terrorist networks
Putting aside India’s fantastic claims regarding 12 IAF jets hitting JeM’s terror camp in Pakistan which is likely to be an exaggeration, there are aspects of the Indian intrusion that raise disturbing questions. A number of Indian military aircraft violated not only the LoC but also entered Pakistan’s airspace up to Balakot in Khyber Paktunkhwa. They returned without the loss of any aircraft sending the message that they could take the sort of action any time with impunity. There was no element of surprise in the incident as tension on the border was running record high, the Indian media was abuzz with cries of revenge and President Trump had warned that there is a very, very bad and dangerous situation as India is planning strong action against Pakistan. The incident has made many feel insecure.
Imran Khan once again proved himself to be no more than a run-of-the mill politician playing to the gallery when he warned Indian PM Modi last week “If you think that you can carry out any kind of attack on Pakistan, Pakistan will not just think about retaliating, we will retaliate.” While he posits as a proud Pathan who always carries out whatever he says, he will have to eat the humble pie by going back on his impolitic statement.
The opposition wants to expose Imran Khan by delivering ultrapatriotic speeches in parliament. What is needed is to react to the Indian provocation in a realistic manner. War is detrimental not only for both India and Pakistan but also for the entire region. China which is Pakistan’s tried and tested ally has urged both countries after the Indian intrusion to exercise restraint. This is a sound advice which should lead everyone to discourage war cries. The embarrassing incident should make those who take decisions realise the danger posed by the presence of terrorist networks on Pakistan’s territory. While supporting the indigenous struggle of the brave Kashmiri people politically and morally Pakistan has to urgently get rid of whatever terrorist networks still exist in Pakistan in a convincing manner. Everyone knows Pakistan has nuclear weapons. No country would however appreciate if we dangle the threat.
