Give Us Hafiz & Azhar, Munir!

Trump may have paused war but what about terrorists Pakistan is sheltering?

- DR VIJAY DARDA

Right after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, I wrote in this very column reflecting the anger simmering in our country: "Our blood is boiling, let's get it over with!"

The way India responded to Pakistan's provocations, it did seem like the mood was indeed set for a final showdown. But suddenly, a tweet from the US President Donald Trump stated that India and Pakistan had agreed to an immediate ceasefire. Everyone was shocked as to how this happened? How did Trump make the announcement even before the two countries involved?

But Trump knows how to work his magic. The American team facilitated communication between top officials and leaders from both countries and explained to India that the matter should not fall into China's hands and hence, the ceasefire was necessary.

Just before agreeing to the ceasefire, India declared that any future terrorist activity would be considered an act of war. There is no doubt that war is not good. I have always believed that dialogue is a better option.

But Pakistan's tail is so crooked that one cannot expect it to mend ways. Even after the ceasefire was declared on Saturday evening, Pakistan attempted drone attacks from Jammu and Kashmir to Rajasthan. Our military thwarted them, but Pakistan's deceit was exposed.