Tensions between the two nuclear powers reach a critical level, while Iran tries a last minute mediation to avoid an open conflict.
The situation between Pakistan and India deteriorates quickly, marked by a new Pakistani missile test on Monday. This shot intervenes in a context of strong tensions after the murderous attack of April 22 in the Indian cashmere, which cost the life of 26 civilians. The accusations multiply between the two neighbors, each rejecting the responsibility of the attack on the other.
Faced with this escalation, Iran has proposed its intermediary. The Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abbas Araghchi, began a visit to Islamabad before going to New Delhi later in the week. His goal: to try to calm the spirits and avoid a regional conflagration. Meanwhile, the Pakistani army launched a Fatah soil-to-ground missile, a range of 120 km, presented as a demonstration of force and military preparation.
The statements of Pakistani leaders want to be reassuring for their population, but firm with regard to India. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the success of the test, while the Minister of Information, Attaullah Tarar, warned that any Indian strike would lead to a much more severe response than in previous clashes.
On the Indian side, the authorities maintain their hard line. Prime Minister Narendra Modi authorized a military response after the attack, fueling the fears of an imminent intervention. The exchanges of sporadic fire along the control line in cashmere continue, and the populations on both sides of the border live in apprehension.
The international community follows the situation with concern. Russia has called for appeasement, while other regional actors, such as Saudi Arabia, could also play a role in mediation. For the moment, diplomatic efforts remain fragile, and the slightest spark could trigger a conflict with unpredictable consequences between these two powers with nuclear weapons.
