PM Modi Declares Fighting with Pakistan ‘Only Paused’, Not Over

In his first national address following a ceasefire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India’s military action against Pakistan is “only paused,” not ended, after a recent escalation that nearly led to a fifth full-scale war between the nuclear-armed neighbors. Modi strongly asserted that India would retaliate on its own terms against any future terror attacks and would not differentiate between governments supporting terrorism and terrorist groups.

The latest conflict intensified after the Indian military launched missile strikes on May 6, targeting locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, claiming to have destroyed terrorist infrastructure. Pakistan rejected these claims. Modi accused Pakistan of choosing to attack India rather than tackle terrorism and stated that India would not tolerate any form of “nuclear blackmail.” He warned that India will closely monitor every move made by Pakistan.

During his speech in New Delhi, Modi emphasized that this era is neither one of war nor of terrorism, and linked terrorism to trade relations with Pakistan. Citing the Indus Waters Treaty—long upheld despite prior tensions—Modi announced a halt to water flow to Pakistan, signaling a drastic diplomatic shift. He argued that "terror and trade cannot go together," and “water and blood cannot flow together,” suggesting water resources will now be used as a tool of strategic pressure.

Pakistan’s Finance Minister, in response, said the treaty—suspended unilaterally by India—must be restored to its original status. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed his administration helped broker the ceasefire and thus prevented a possible nuclear conflict.

India has blamed Pakistan for a deadly April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, that killed 26 tourists—a charge Pakistan denies. Since the start of the hostilities, about 60 civilians have reportedly died on both sides.

With tensions slightly easing, Indian and Pakistani military leaders planned to revisit the ceasefire agreement. Talks originally set for noon on Monday were rescheduled for later in the day. Analysts believe these discussions will center on technical and tactical aspects to prevent further escalations, rather than outlining long-term policy. South Asia expert Abdul Basit warned that even a minor misstep could spark a catastrophic nuclear conflict.

As a sign of relative calm, the Indian Army reported a peaceful night across Kashmir and along the international border. Indian authorities also reopened 32 airports previously shut due to hostilities.

Despite the ceasefire, both India and Pakistan continue to claim victory. Pakistan’s military leaders described their operation as successful, saying they had re-established deterrence and neutralized key threats. Indian military officials, including Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, insisted that India had shown great restraint but would respond decisively to any threat to national sovereignty.

Civilians in Kashmir remain the most affected by the crossfire and uncertainty. Though the situation is temporarily calmer, both countries remain on high alert. Global observers are watching closely for signs of either long-term peace or renewed confrontation, as tensions remain simmering just beneath the surface.