Overview

The article discusses the challenges faced by Indian diplomats following Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack. It highlights criticisms of India's diplomatic strategies, international reactions, and the broader geopolitical implications.

Key Criticisms of Diplomatic Efforts

• Lack of Support:
  • India received condolences for the Pahalgam attack but lacked unequivocal support for retaliatory strikes against Pakistan.
  • In past incidents like Uri and Pulwama, India garnered more global solidarity.
• Pakistan's Diplomatic Wins:
  • Pakistan amended a UNSC resolution to exclude reference to The Resistance Front.
  • Pakistan gained positions in UNSC committees and secured international loans.
  • Meetings are scheduled on the India-Pakistan conflict, with India pushing to designate TRF and place Pakistan on the FATF greylist.
• U.S. President's Statements:
  • President Trump's comments have muddied the narrative, with offers to mediate on Kashmir and equating India and Pakistan.

Diplomatic Maneuvers

After Operation Sindoor, India engaged in extensive diplomatic activities, including delegations visiting 32 countries and various high-level meetings, indicating a need to bolster diplomatic efforts.

Message and Geopolitical Perception

• Modi's "New Normal":
  • Declares any act of terror as an act of war, lowering conflict thresholds.
  • Asserts India will not bow to nuclear blackmail.
  • States India will not differentiate between state and non-state actors, implying escalated responses.

Global Perception Challenges

• World View on Tough Messaging:
  • India's statements on reclaiming Pakistan-occupied Kashmir cause discomfort amid global conflicts.
• International Criticism:
  • India’s stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and silence on Israel-Gaza tensions raised concerns.
  • Global discussions on India's internal policies, democracy, and minority status have intensified.

Conclusion

India's right to self-defense against terrorism is undeniable. However, to effectively convey its tough stance on terrorism, the government needs to leverage India's strengths as a secular, democratic, and stable nation distinct from Pakistan.