

Will the India-Pakistan ceasefire hold?
10 snips May 11, 2025
Elijah Magnier, a seasoned military and political analyst, joins Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor of The Economist, to dissect the fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan. They discuss the unprecedented military escalations, including the use of strike drones. The evolving military strategies of India are highlighted, especially following recent terror attacks. Moreover, they examine the changing dynamics in regional air power and the complex geopolitics of Kashmir, emphasizing the diminishing role of the U.S. in mediation.
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Surprise Ceasefire Amid Escalation
- The ceasefire between India and Pakistan appeared unexpectedly after intense exchange of retaliations.
- Airstrikes near Pakistan's nuclear assets pushed major powers to urge de-escalation urgently.
New Military Escalation Features
- This conflict saw the first missile and airstrike engagements on military bases in over 50 years between India and Pakistan.
- Extensive use of loitering munitions (suicide strike drones) was a novel feature increasing crisis intensity.
India’s New Military Response Threshold
- India shifted to a more forceful military philosophy, striking deeper into Pakistan including Punjab, its heartland.
- India no longer feels the need to prove state involvement in terrorism before retaliating.