ISLAMABAD – South Asian arch-enemies Pakistan and India are moving toward scaling back their troop deployments along border to levels seen before May clashes when the world witnessed an unprecedented escalation in recent decades.
Amid cool down, Chairman of Pakistan’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Sahir Shamshad Mirza told wire service that tensions remain high and risk of future escalation increased. He confirmed both countries started withdrawing forces following four days of intense fighting involving fighter jets, drones, missiles, and artillery.
The confrontation started after last month’s attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir in which more than two dozen tourists were killed. New Delhi accused Pakistan of involvement, though Islamabad denied the claim and requested an independent investigation.
The fighting escalated further after India launched missile strikes on May 7 targeting what it called “terrorist infrastructure” across the border, prompting a defensive response and troop buildup from Pakistan.
Gen Sahir said both sides are close to returning to pre-clash situation, or may have already reached that point. While no nuclear weapons were involved in the recent clashes, Mirza said situation remains dangerous. “You cannot rule out any strategic miscalculation during crises,” he said, highlighting concerns that future conflicts may not be confined to the disputed Kashmir region but could spread more widely.
Diplomatic efforts reportedly led by US helped de-escalate the confrontation, although India insists any dialogue with Pakistan must be bilateral and denies third-party mediation.
General Mirza also noted the lack of formal crisis management channels between the two militaries beyond limited hotlines. He said no informal or backchannel talks are currently underway and dismissed any plans to meet his Indian counterpart, General Anil Chauhan, who is also attending the forum.
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