The drone strike on the Jammu Air Force base on June 27 added a predictable twist to temporary peace moves by India and Pakistan, threatening backchannel diplomacy to ensure a ceasefire along the Line of Control. However, both sides want a ceasefire, which has relieved rival forces from daily casualties. Despite the claim of some generals that India can fight both Pakistan and China simultaneously, India also does not want a war on two fronts.
Fortunately, there was minimal damage in the Jammu attack – a hangar with several helicopters was left behind in explosives. Since it was speculated that it was launched from Indian territory, no one is tracing it back to Pakistan. But, experts say, it underscores drones as a clear and present threat.
While it is in the interest of India and Pakistan to keep the LoC calm, no government is in the mood for a comprehensive peace plan. From a Pakistani point of view, Prime Minister Imran Khan cannot get down from his extremist stance on Kashmir. Furthermore, although Pakistan’s army chief…
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