Experts Warn of High Costs if India-Pakistan War Erupts

In the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack, there has been widespread public outrage in India against Pakistan's actions. Emotions are running high across the nation, with many calling for a strong retaliatory response. Meanwhile, the Government of India has taken a series of tough measures against Pakistan, including a significant decision to grant full operational freedom to the armed forces.

Amidst this tense atmosphere, various experts have weighed in on the potential consequences if a war were to break out between India and Pakistan.

Ajay Bisaria, who served as India's High Commissioner to Pakistan from 2017 to 2023, emphasized that decisions regarding war should not be based on public sentiment. “The timing of a war should not be dictated by public opinion,” said Ajay Bisaria. He stressed that the success of any military operation hinges on three critical factors: speed, surprise, and secrecy.

Ajay Bisaria further stated, “If war becomes inevitable, the decision must be made independently and strategically. We must be prepared to face any grave consequences, and if control is lost, we may be forced into a full-scale war.” He highlighted the necessity of capability, resilience, political will, and national determination to confront such a scenario effectively.

Strategic affairs expert Sushant Sareen cautioned that the cost of war would be enormous. He warned that if both nations were to engage in missile strikes against each other, it would have devastating effects on urban areas in both countries.

“If missiles rain down on cities, the impact will be seen on Islamabad and Lahore, as well as on Delhi,” said Sushant Sareen. He also noted that in such a scenario, India may not be able to count on the support of Russia, a traditional partner. Sareen supported India's current stance of blocking Pakistani YouTube channels, calling it a justified move given the present situation.