A full-scale conflict between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan has once again been narrowly avoided, thanks in large part to behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts led by the United States, according to the BBC.
South Asia Regional Editor Anbarasan Ethirajan, reporting from New Delhi, noted that while tensions remain high, the ceasefire agreement signals a temporary pause in hostilities and a moment for both countries to reflect on the outcomes of their brief but intense confrontation.
“Once again, an all-out conflict between the two South Asian rivals has been averted — at least for now,” wrote Ethirajan. “The US seems to have played a key role in brokering the ceasefire.”
With both sides stepping back, analysts say each is now evaluating its performance — militarily and diplomatically. For Pakistan, the standoff is being seen internally as a strategic success. The military leadership is expected to highlight its role in “thwarting Indian aggression,” with the added political benefit of national unity rallying around the armed forces.
“In a way, they are another winner here, as the country rallied behind them,” the BBC reported, contrasting the current support with the protests seen just two years ago against the military by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
On the Indian side, the government may portray its actions as a bold response against what it labels “terrorist infrastructure” inside Pakistan, even in the face of nuclear risk. However, the operation has also exposed some uncomfortable military truths for New Delhi.
“Delhi may also realise that their bitter rival’s air power may be more than a match,” Ethirajan observed, noting that despite heavy investments in advanced weaponry — including Rafale jets and precision missiles — India appeared unable to deliver a decisive blow.
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump has been quick to frame the ceasefire as a triumph of diplomacy, casting himself as a global peacemaker. His Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has likewise been credited with his first major diplomatic achievement.
As calm tentatively returns, observers caution that without sustained diplomacy and structural conflict resolution, South Asia remains just one miscalculation away from renewed confrontation.
