In a recent address to the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the current state of India-Pakistan relations following the ceasefire and 'Operation Sindoor'. The Prime Minister asserted that India has only paused its military actions and that future actions are dependent on Pakistan's behavior. He made it clear that India will not tolerate "nuclear blackmail" from Pakistan.
PM Modi emphasized a firm stance against terrorism, stating that "terror and talks cannot go together; terror and trade cannot go together; and water and blood also cannot flow together". He highlighted that any future dialogue with Pakistan would focus solely on terrorism and the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
The Prime Minister's address comes shortly after a ceasefire was announced between India and Pakistan. This ceasefire was proceeded by heightened tensions and military engagements, including India's "Operation Sindoor," which targeted terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians.
PM Modi described the Pahalgam attack as "the most barbaric face of terrorism" and a personal pain. He said that the nation wanted strong action against terrorism after the brutal killings. In response, Indian forces launched precision strikes on terrorists inside Pakistan, inflicting "unimaginable damage".
PM Modi stated that "Operation Sindoor is not just a name, it is a reflection of the sentiments of our people" and "a pledge for justice". He underlined that the operation signifies a doctrinal change and a new policy against terrorism. He also wants the international community to know that any talks with Pakistan will only be regarding terrorism and the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The Prime Minister stressed that this is "not an era of war, but it is also not an era of terrorism". He said that India is closely watching Pakistan and its actions. He further asserted that if Pakistan wants to survive as a nation, it must eliminate the terrorist infrastructure flourishing on its soil. "The terrorists they have been feeding and nurturing all these years will swallow Pakistan itself".
In conjunction with the Prime Minister's address, Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMO) from India and Pakistan held talks. The DGMOs deliberated on the understanding reached on May 10 to cease military actions and firings. Following the DGMO talks, a press briefing was held to share details on "Operation Sindoor," including India's air defense and intercepted Pakistani strikes.
Air Marshal AK Bharti stated that India's primary objective was to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, but Pakistan's military chose to protect these elements, leading India to expand its response. He added that the country's battle-tested systems proved their worth in actual combat conditions.
PM Modi reiterated that India has only suspended retaliatory actions against Pakistan's terrorist and military bases and will be closely monitoring Pakistan's actions. He warned that India "will take decisive action against terrorist bases operating under the guise of such threats" and that there will be no distinction between government-sponsored terrorism and terrorist organizations.
The Prime Minister also addressed the Indus Waters Treaty, stating, "water and blood cannot flow together," indicating that the treaty will remain in abeyance until Pakistan takes concrete action against terrorism on its soil.
Concluding his address, PM Modi saluted the Indian Army and Armed Forces and the courage and unity of the people of India. He affirmed India's commitment to peace and prosperity while underscoring the necessity of using its power when required.
