What should be India's move against Pakistan after Nagrota attack?

When considering India's response to an attack like the one in Nagrota, several factors and historical contexts need to be taken into account:

Strategic Signaling and Restraint

India's response should balance the need to signal resolve and deterrence with the necessity of avoiding escalation. The "surgical strikes" conducted after the Uri attack in 2016 are a relevant example. These strikes were designed to be precise, targeting terrorist launch pads along the Line of Control, and were framed as a necessary and limited intervention to prevent further terrorist infiltration14.

Diplomatic and International Pressure

Given the risks of military escalation, especially in a nuclear-armed environment, India might consider leveraging international pressure to compel Pakistan to crack down on anti-Indian militant groups. This approach involves engaging with the global community to isolate Pakistan diplomatically and economically for its support of terrorism3.

Limited Military Action

Any military response should be limited and targeted, avoiding direct confrontation with Pakistani military facilities to prevent a full-scale war. Instead, India could focus on specific terrorist targets, ensuring that the operations are presented as a last resort after diplomatic efforts have failed. This approach helps in managing domestic and international perceptions and reduces the likelihood of an unwanted escalation134.

Domestic and International Messaging

The messaging around any response is crucial. India needs to convey that the actions are aimed at neutralizing terrorists and maintaining regional peace, rather than targeting Pakistan directly. This helps in reassuring the international community and managing domestic public opinion14.

Bilateral Engagement and Long-term Solutions

Despite immediate responses, India should continue to seek long-term solutions through bilateral dialogue and regional cooperation. However, any engagement must be contingent on Pakistan's commitment to addressing terrorism and respecting India's security concerns. Recent developments, such as the potential for a bilateral thaw in 2025 due to changing domestic and regional dynamics, could provide an opportunity for renewed dialogue25.

In summary, India's move against Pakistan after an attack like the one in Nagrota should involve:

• Limited and targeted military action against terrorist targets.
• Strong diplomatic and international pressure to isolate Pakistan for its support of terrorism.
• Careful messaging to reassure both domestic and international audiences.
• Continued efforts towards bilateral engagement and long-term solutions, conditional on Pakistan's commitment to addressing terrorism.