Squeeze Where It Really Hurts
The article discusses strategic measures for India to counter Pakistan's military and financial support, particularly following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The focus is on leveraging international relations and economic influence.
Targeting Arms and Financial Flow
- Goal: Undermine Pakistan's military influence, specifically targeting army chief.
- International Pressure: Encourage countries like the US, Russia, and China to halt arms sales to Pakistan.
- Financial Constraints: Persuade major funders like Saudi Arabia and the UAE to withdraw financial support.
Using Economic Influence
- US Leverage: Delay Air India's purchase of Boeing jets to influence US policies on aid to Pakistan.
- Diplomatic Efforts: Engage with countries supporting Pakistan to restrict financial flows, like the $5.51 billion loan from China.
- Trade Restrictions: Consider halting pharmaceutical exports to Pakistan, which are costly to replace.
India's Market Clout
- China's Dependency: China is a major supplier of arms to Pakistan, and India could leverage its market to influence Chinese policies.
- Reducing Imports: Suggest reducing Chinese imports by 20% to pressurize Beijing economically.
Strategic Bargaining
- Complex Negotiations: Utilize India's global market, political, and cultural influence for bargaining.
- Role of Diaspora: Leverage Indian-origin managers in West Asia and the US for strategic advantages.
The overarching strategy is to implement an economic squeeze on Pakistan, delivering a significant and enduring deterrence against its military and terror-related activities.
