Pakistan on Tuesday reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire deal reached with India following last week's intense cross-border clashes. However, Islamabad made it clear that any future acts of aggression by New Delhi would be met with a firm and decisive response, signaling that while Pakistan seeks de-escalation, it is prepared to defend itself.

This statement came a day after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed his nation, warning that India would not hesitate to target militant hideouts across the border if new attacks were launched on Indian soil. Modi dismissed concerns over Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities, saying India would not be held back by what he termed “nuclear blackmail.”

The recent flare-up began after a deadly assault on Hindu pilgrims in Indian-administered Kashmir left 26 dead. India responded with air and drone strikes on what it claimed were militant bases in Pakistani and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir. In retaliation, Pakistan launched its own strikes, leading to days of military confrontation involving drones, missiles, and casualties on both sides.

Pakistan disputes India’s account, insisting that its territory was targeted indiscriminately and that civilian areas bore the brunt of the attacks. According to the Pakistani military, 40 civilians and 11 soldiers were killed in the strikes. India, meanwhile, reported the loss of five soldiers and 16 civilians. The violence marked the most serious confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in nearly 30 years.

The situation de-escalated on Saturday after backchannel diplomacy and intervention from international actors, notably the United States. Despite the truce, tensions remain high. Islamabad strongly criticized Modi’s comments, calling them “provocative and inflammatory,” and warned that such rhetoric could undermine ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.

In a separate development, India expelled a Pakistani diplomat, accusing him of activities "incompatible with his official status." The official was given 24 hours to leave the country, reflecting the ongoing strain in diplomatic relations. Both countries had already scaled back the presence of their diplomatic missions following the April 22 attack, underscoring how fragile and tense the current peace truly is.