India has taken dramatic steps to de-escalate rising tensions between it and Pakistan after losing six fighter jets during a failed military campaign earlier this month. Following heavy combat in Kashmir that resulted in heavy operational setbacks and increasing international pressure for both parties to back off from war, diplomatic efforts are being employed as part of India’s attempt to defuse tensions between both parties.
Indian defense officials claim that what began as a preemptive strike against what New Delhi labeled as “terror launchpads” across the Line of Control quickly escalated into an all-out air and artillery engagement, with six aircraft reported shot down during aerial combat as well as surface-to-air missile attacks from Pakistani forces. The Indian Air Force (IAF) suffered heavy casualties as part of this engagement; senior Indian defense officials noted this fact.
While India has not officially confirmed how many aircraft were lost, sources within its defense establishment acknowledged the unexpected and gravely concerning loss. Independent military analysts estimate that India lost at least two Su-30MKIs, two Mirage 2000s and two MiG-29s.
Operation Trident Edge” was initiated after an attack in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir claimed 15 Indian lives and sent out a strong signal to Islamabad; unfortunately it may have backfired instead.
On Friday, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar made it known that India is seeking “a robust diplomatic solution”, initiating talks via backchannel communication with key international stakeholders including the U.S., UAE and UN.
“India firmly embraces its principle of peace through strength, but also recognizes dialogue as essential when conflict reaches dangerous thresholds,” stated Jaishankar. “To achieve our aim and protect life along the border.” “Our regional and global partners have been engaged to restore stability at the border region and prevent further loss of lives.
Diplomacy has emerged in response to rising international concerns. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently called upon both nations to exercise “maximum restraint”, offering mediation services if requested by either party. Meanwhile, Washington and London have demanded an immediate ceasefire and renewal of bilateral dialogue discussions.
Pakistan has responded carefully to India’s overtures. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed India’s call for diplomacy while emphasizing that any talks must start off by recognising Kashmiris right to self-determination.
Public sentiment in India remains divided, with some citizens welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s shift toward diplomacy while others have voiced disappointment over military setbacks and are seeking accountability from his administration. Opposition leaders have denounced Narendra Modi for engaging in high-stakes military gambles without sufficient planning.
As tensions along the LoC remain elevated and both nations keep up their military readiness, the next few days will be key. India’s diplomatic pivot remains uncertain but may provide the only viable path forward after an unsuccessful show of force has created such an expensive mess.