In a recent address to the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India has merely "suspended" its military action against Pakistan, delivering a firm message in the wake of recent clashes. This statement, made on Monday, marks his first public communication since a ceasefire was reached after a period of intense military confrontation that sparked fears of a potential fifth war between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Modi emphasized that India's future actions would be contingent on Pakistan's behavior, vowing to retaliate on its own terms should there be any future terror attacks. He asserted that his government would not differentiate between states that support terrorism and terrorist groups themselves. "We will be monitoring every step of Pakistan," Modi stated, adding, "This is not an era of war, but this is not an era of terrorism, either".

The Indian military had launched multiple missile strikes targeting sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir on May 6, claiming to have struck "terrorist infrastructure". Pakistan refuted these claims, but Modi stated that Pakistan chose to "attack" India rather than combat terrorism, adding that India would not tolerate "nuclear blackmail".

Turning his attention to the Indus Waters Treaty, Modi declared, "Terror and trade cannot go together, water and blood cannot flow together". India's recent decision to halt the flow of water, a crucial resource for Pakistan's agriculture and civilian needs, signals a significant diplomatic shift, using water as leverage.

PM Modi also shed light on the events leading up to the ceasefire, stating that Pakistan's military was compelled to contact India's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) following India's retaliatory actions. He claimed that India had dismantled significant portions of terrorist infrastructure and eliminated numerous terrorists. According to Modi, Pakistan assured that there would be no further terrorist activity or military aggression before India considered a response.

The Prime Minister lauded the defense forces for carrying out "Operation Sindoor," emphasizing India's "unwavering commitment to justice". He stated that the operation involved precise strikes on terrorist hideouts and training centers within Pakistan. Modi underscored that "Operation Sindoor" would now represent India's policy against terrorism, establishing a "new normal".

Amidst the heightened tensions, reports also emerged that military commanders from both India and Pakistan were expected to review the recently brokered ceasefire agreement. Discussions were expected to focus on technical details aimed at preventing future flare-ups.