In a significant and urgent diplomatic development, the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of Pakistan and India have re-established direct contact in the wake of escalating military tensions. This move came immediately after India launched a series of missile strikes in Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Pakistani territory early Wednesday morning.
According to insiders, Pakistan’s NSA Lt. General Asim Malik, who also serves as the Director General of the ISI, spoke with his Indian counterpart, Ajit Doval, in what appears to be a critical effort to reduce hostilities and restore stability in the region.
Behind-the-Scenes Diplomacy at Play
While Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, confirmed the contact, he refrained from providing details regarding the nature or outcome of the discussions. However, a senior Pakistani official emphasized the necessity of such communication channels during times of military crises, underscoring the urgency for de-escalation between nuclear-armed neighbors.
Behind the scenes, international and regional players were instrumental in brokering this communication. Notably, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who also holds the National Security portfolio, contacted both nations’ NSAs in a bid to prevent further escalation.
Lessons from Balakot and a New Doctrine of Clarity
The current situation has drawn comparisons with the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, which were carried out by India following the Pulwama attack. At that time, Pakistan was taken by surprise, and it took more than a day for Pakistani leadership to formulate a military response.
However, the scenario is starkly different in 2025. This time, Pakistan had clear directives in place. Officials have reported that the military was prepared for a “quid pro quo plus” response — signaling not just a reaction, but a superior counterstrike. As per inside sources, Pakistan was forewarned by a third-party nation about the looming Indian strikes, enabling it to swiftly retaliate.
Pakistan’s Retaliation: A Display of Military Might
The moment reports of explosions came in from Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Muridke, and Bahawalpur, Pakistan launched its immediate counter-attack. The retaliation was decisive and strategic — executed through both air and ground forces.
In a major blow to Indian air capabilities, Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian fighter jets, including several Rafale jets, which India had acquired from France to bolster its aerial dominance.
According to DG ISPR Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Pakistan could have downed even more jets but chose to exercise restraint. He emphasized that the goal was deterrence, not provocation.
Media Blackout and International Reactions
Interestingly, Indian media has been noticeably silent on the losses sustained. The Hindu briefly published a report confirming the downing of three Indian jets, which was later removed — reportedly due to government pressure.
On international platforms, this incident has sparked widespread debate. A French intelligence source told CNN that the loss of a Rafale jet was likely true — marking the first time such an advanced aircraft has been downed in combat.
China’s Role and Technological Edge
This confrontation is being viewed not just as a military standoff between India and Pakistan, but also a showdown between Eastern and Western defense technologies. With Pakistan deploying its newly acquired Chinese J-10C fighter jets, and India relying on French Rafales, analysts are now reassessing the global arms race dynamics.
As one American commentator put it:
“If Pakistan has indeed downed Rafale jets using Chinese technology, it’s a loud statement — China is now a serious player in next-gen aerial warfare.”
Strategic Implications for the Region
This rapid escalation and equally swift diplomatic engagement through NSA-level contact mark a new chapter in Indo-Pak relations. The military restraint shown by Pakistan, coupled with a proactive diplomatic approach, reflects a shift towards more strategic, calculated responses.
The situation remains tense, but the reopening of back-channel communication offers a glimmer of hope. The role of international diplomacy, particularly the involvement of the United States and possibly China, has helped prevent a full-scale war scenario.
With South Asia teetering on the edge, such efforts are not just necessary — they are vital for regional peace and global stability.