New Delhi: India has issued a strong warning that Pakistan may attempt attacks similar to the Pahalgam strike in April 2025, which killed 26 civilians. Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, Western Army Commander of India, stated that while Pakistan is unlikely to engage in a full-scale war, it could resort to limited cross-border strikes and asymmetric attacks.
In response, India is preparing a major counter operation, Operation Sindoor 2.0, designed to surpass previous efforts in intensity and effectiveness. General Katiyar emphasized that the Indian Army is fully prepared to respond decisively to any provocations, reflecting a tougher posture toward cross border threats.
The Pahalgam attack had previously led India to launch Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist launch pads and infrastructure linked to Pakistan. With the new operation, India aims to prevent any repeat incidents and deliver a stronger response to future provocations. Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif recently acknowledged the real possibility of conflict with India, asserting that Pakistan would “perform better than before” if hostilities arose, highlighting growing regional tensions.
At the same time, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have intensified following violent clashes along their shared border. On October 14, 2025, Pakistani and Afghan forces clashed in Kurram district, with Pakistani officials claiming that Afghan forces and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants initiated unprovoked attacks. Pakistan’s military reported destroying Afghan tanks and posts, while Afghanistan confirmed the incident with limited details.
These clashes are rooted in long standing issues, including cross border militancy, disputes over the Durand Line, and militant activity in the tribal areas. The October 14 confrontation resulted in the death of a senior Pakistani commander and extensive damage to Taliban positions. Earlier clashes left dozens dead on both sides, with Afghanistan reporting 58 Pakistani soldiers killed, while Pakistan confirmed 23 casualties and claimed over 200 Taliban militants were eliminated. Civilian losses have also been reported, with at least 12 killed and around 100 injured.
Both nations have closed major border crossings, including Torkham and Chaman, disrupting trade and civilian movement. Regional powers and the international community have called for restraint to prevent further escalation.
With rising threats from Pakistan to India and ongoing clashes along with Pakistan Afghanistan border, South Asia faces heightened instability. India’s preparations for Operation Sindoor 2.0 under score its readiness to respond to cross border provocations, while Pakistan and Afghanistan remain locked in a cycle of violence. Diplomatic engagement and international monitoring remain crucial to preventing further escalation and ensuring regional stability.