Research Analyst Shawn Rostker wrote an op-ed in The National Interest about how the United States should approach the crisis between India and Pakistan.
Open conflict has erupted between India and Pakistan, once again raising the possibility of nuclear confrontation. Indian missile strikes into Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir have resulted in eight deaths, according to Pakistani officials. At the same time, Islamabad claims to have shot down two (or more) Indian fighter jets over its territory. Shelling and heavy gunfire have also broken out along the Line of Control (LOC), the heavily militarized de facto border that divides Indian- and Pakistani-controlled parts of Kashmir.
Pakistan’s defense minister has said a “forceful response is being given.” As fighting intensifies, the United States now faces a narrow but urgent opportunity that requires modest, focused diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation, reinforce U.S. credibility, and avoid much higher costs in areas beyond South Asia later. Read more
