At a moment when hardline elements in India are amplifying calls for confrontation, Pakistan must strengthen its internal front. National unity is not merely a symbolic gesture during times of external threat — it is a strategic necessity.
In this context, the government took a commendable step by inviting representatives of all major political parties to an in-camera briefing on Sunday, aimed at sharing the state’s assessment of the current security situation. Senior officials, including the ISPR chief and the information minister, provided the briefing. Unfortunately, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), the country’s largest opposition party, chose to boycott the meeting, calling it a “one-sided briefing” and instead proposed a multiparty conference to openly debate the crisis. Nevertheless, a PTI spokesman emphasized that the party stood “shoulder to shoulder” with the military in the event of foreign aggression.
While political disagreements are a normal feature of any democracy, moments of national crisis demand that such divisions be set aside — at least temporarily — to craft a collective response to external threats. It is regrettable that the PTI opted out of the session, but the government should persist in its efforts to bring the opposition into the fold. A united national response, shaped by input from all key stakeholders, will not only project strength but will also help ensure that decisions are grounded in broad consensus.
On the diplomatic front, Pakistan continues to reach out to international partners, aiming to counter India’s aggressive posturing. The government’s efforts have already led to significant international attention: the UN Security Council was set to convene on Monday at Pakistan’s request, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for “maximum restraint” from both sides. Diplomatic engagement remains Pakistan’s strongest card, and the international community has a vital role to play in defusing tensions.
Notably, Russia has offered to mediate between Pakistan and India, provided there is mutual interest — a development that highlights the importance of third-party involvement when bilateral relations are strained. Similarly, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has urged both sides to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation. If India is serious about seeking peace, it should respond positively to these offers, rather than ignoring calls for calm in favor of domestic political gain.
It is also worth noting that despite its loud accusations, India has failed to present credible evidence linking Pakistan to the tragic killings in Pahalgam. It seems clear that blame was swiftly — and perhaps deliberately — cast on Pakistan before even a preliminary investigation was conducted. This hasty attribution has not only derailed efforts to improve ties but has also allowed India to revive longstanding grievances, such as disputes over the Indus Waters Treaty.
Now that its attempts to rally the international community against Pakistan have largely fallen flat, New Delhi must reassess its approach. Responsible statecraft requires dialing down inflammatory rhetoric and working sincerely towards regional stability. Indian officials would do well to moderate their public statements, while Pakistan, for its part, must also ensure that hawkish voices within its own ranks are balanced by more rational perspectives.
Finally, the role of the media on both sides of the border cannot be overstated. While sensationalist coverage may boost television ratings or social media clicks, it comes at the cost of stoking public hysteria and inflaming tensions. Reputable media outlets in both countries have a duty to report with care, avoid alarmism, and foster informed debate — especially during times of heightened crisis.
In sum, the path forward requires wisdom, patience, and, above all, unity. Pakistan’s leadership and opposition alike must rise above political rivalries and work together to safeguard the nation’s interests, while continuing diplomatic efforts to bring down the temperature in South Asia. The stakes are too high for anything less.
