by Muhammad Mohsin Iqbal
Pakistan-India strategic tensions have exposed not only the limits of military confrontation but also the deeper wounds that linger in the psyche of nations. Almighty Allah, in His infinite wisdom, has endowed the human body with extraordinary resilience. When flesh or bone is wounded, nature itself comes to its aid, and in due course, the body recovers. Yet, there are wounds of another kind—those inflicted upon the soul—that remain restless and unhealed for long stretches of time.
These wounds torment the heart, disturb the mind, and give birth to a restlessness that refuses to subside. Today, Indian rulers and their military chiefs find themselves bound in this very condition, haunted by the scars left by Pakistan’s firm response on May 9 and 10, 2025. Although time has passed, the sting of those days has not faded. In desperation, they have carried this bitterness even into the realm of sports.
The Asian Cup clash became yet another reflection of Pakistan-India strategic tensions, where sport was overshadowed by unresolved hostility. Recently, the Pakistan-India clash in the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates became more than a cricket match. Instead, it turned into a canvas for India’s frustration, painted before the eyes of the world. Moreover, the conduct of their team—especially the posture of their captain—betrayed a willingness to sacrifice the sanctity of sport on the altar of politics. Where the cricket field should have reflected discipline, sportsmanship, and the joy of fair competition, India’s irritation transformed it into a stage for political expression. Indeed, the captain himself embodied this surrender of sport to politics. That moment stunned not only the spectators in the stadium but also millions across the globe who followed the contest.
Unable to gain victory on the battlefield, India’s rulers have long resorted to cowardly and indirect methods. They use these tactics to soothe their bitterness. Among these is reckless aggression over water—a hostility that disregards humanity and international principles. In their bid to damage Pakistan, Indian authorities submerged large parts of their own eastern Punjab. As a result, they wreaked havoc upon the lives of their fellow citizens. This tragic act of revenge targeted not only Pakistan but also the Sikh community residing in that region. The Sikhs, whose voice for freedom grows stronger day by day across the world, have become the target of India’s misplaced fury.
Meanwhile, this rage does not remain confined to internal oppression. Around the globe, the Indian government continues to malign the Sikhs, weaken their diaspora, and silence their leaders. The assassinations of Sikh intellectuals and activists are no secret. In fact, India’s hand looms large behind many such incidents. At the same time, Indian-sponsored terrorists attempt to spread violence within Pakistan. Pakistan possesses undeniable evidence of these efforts. Therefore, the world cannot remain blind to such activities. Yet, India persists in weaving its fabric of deceit with remarkable consistency. These actions form part of the broader pattern of Pakistan-India strategic tensions, extending far beyond borders and into global communities.
Driven by madness, Indian rulers have pushed their nation into the depths of an arms race. They seek strength not in peace but in instruments of destruction. Their desire to harm Pakistan—even at the cost of their own prosperity—has led them to dangerous extremes. While some say everything is fair in love and war, Pakistan has always upheld principles, even in conflict. In contrast to its neighbor, Pakistan does not abandon humanity when compelled to defend itself. The restraint shown on May 9 and 10 stands as a testament to this truth.
This distinction is one the world must recognize. One nation is drunk with vengeance; the other is tempered with dignity. Yet, recognition from abroad must not lead to complacency at home. India today sits uneasily on the fence—restless, embittered, and opportunistic. At any moment, it may seize a chance to inflict harm upon Pakistan. This could come through open aggression, covert operations, propaganda, or international maneuvering.
Therefore, Pakistan must remain vigilant. The path forward lies in strength, wisdom, and unity. First, our defenses must stay ready. History teaches us that weakness invites aggression, while preparedness deters it. Our armed forces have proved their mettle time and again. Nevertheless, we must support them with the latest technology, intelligence networks, and cyber capabilities to counter new forms of warfare.
Second, Pakistan must strengthen internal unity. No external enemy can weaken a nation whose people are bound together in spirit and purpose. Political polarization, sectarian divisions, and economic disparities only create opportunities for our adversary. Hence, we must build a Pakistan where unity of thought, economic resilience, and social harmony stand as strong as our military defenses.
Third, Pakistan must raise its voice on global platforms. We must expose Indian aggression and highlight our commitment to peace and principles. The world must understand that Pakistan does not seek war—but neither does it fear it. Accordingly, our diplomacy must be as sharp as our defenses. We must ensure our narrative is heard and our truth understood.
Finally, Pakistan must invest in its youth—the true guardians of tomorrow. Through education, innovation, and character-building, we will create a Pakistan capable of withstanding any storm. India may drown itself in hatred. In contrast, Pakistan’s future must remain anchored in hope, progress, and faith in Allah Almighty.
The scars of May 2025 may haunt India. But they remind us of an enduring truth: Pakistan is a nation that cannot be subdued. Its people have paid with blood, endured with patience, and risen with resilience. Our adversaries may weave plots in shadows. Yet, the light of Pakistan’s resolve shines brighter. The way forward is clear—vigilance, unity, and unwavering faith. For Pakistan, every challenge is a reminder that we are a nation not built to bow, but to stand firm—against all odds, and for all time.
