Pakistan had one primary aim for its terror attack in Pahalgam: Internationalise the Kashmir issue. This goes against the grain of the Simla Accord between India and Pakistan which stipulates that all disputes between the two countries be resolved bilaterally without outside interference. But when has Pakistan honoured the Simla Accord? India did well to destroy terror camps deep inside Pakistani territory.

These strikes will make Pakistan think twice before launching another terror strike within India. A slugfest of a few days followed in which no side emerged a clear winner until a ceasefire was brokered by the Saudis and the Americans who were afraid that this summer fest would escalate into a nuclear holocaust. The key role in the ceasefire was played by the Saudis, who are trusted by India and who Pakistan is in hock to. But true to type, the Americans took credit. President Donald Trump was the first to announce the ceasefire, on his social media platform, Truth Social. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio took to X to say that the two countries – India and Pakistan – will hold talks at a neutral venue. But this neutral venue business goes against the very essence of the Simla Accord.

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It is exactly what Pakistan wants. It rewards the terrorist – Pakistan – and lays onus on the victim – India. India must not fall for this trick. In its first 100 days itself, the Trump administration has reduced itself to tatters. Forget out the damage it has........

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