Archive
Five Key Concepts to Understand the India-Pakistan Crisis
The recent India-Pakistan crisis drew global attention, but meaningful analysis requires applying an understanding of strategy and technology. This explainer, developed by Stimson’s Strategic Learning initiative, explores five key concepts — deterrence, the stability-instability paradox, escalation, standoff weapons, and crisis…
India’s Past Lessons, Current New Normal, and Future Pakistan Policy
After a four-day conflict involving missile strikes, drone incursions, and intense aerial combat, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on May 10. Both nations have since declared victory and celebrated what they claim is a new approach of dealing…
China’s Shifting Landscape in Afghanistan
Once considered the Taliban’s “most important partner,” China faces a changed landscape in Afghanistan compared to the immediate aftermath of the Taliban’s takeover. Following a period of strong engagement with China, the Taliban is now courting a broader array of…
The Resolve Paradox in India-Pakistan Crisis Bargaining
In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, a new India-Pakistan standoff emerged, leaving observers anxiously contemplating the implications of India’s escalation and Pakistan’s retaliation. After a four-day confrontation and a ceasefire, the dust is more or less settled on…
Armed Rivalry: Assessing India and Pakistan’s Military Buildup Amid Renewed Tensions
India-Pakistan tensions have flared up into a crisis once again. On May 7, India launched missile strikes into mainland Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir in response to a deadly militant attack in Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir. The days of fighting that…
Are India-U.S. Relations Entering a Difficult Phase?
At a media briefing on May 13, India’s Ministry of External Affairs dismissed President Donald Trump’s claims of having “mediated” a “full and immediate ceasefire” between New Delhi and Islamabad. The deal was “bilaterally reached,” it said. A day later, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar told reporters…