Four likely scenarios before Pakistan as it looks to react

Defence experts discuss the options before the western neighbour as the conflict worsens

- Shashank Mattoo

India-Pakistan tensions have risen sharply in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, carried out by Indian forces in the early hours of Wednesday. Pakistan has stated that it reserves the right to respond to Indian military operations at a time and place of its choosing. As South Asia's two nuclear powers square off, Hindustan Times spoke with retired military officers and diplomats to understand the options facing both India and Pakistan.

Scenario 1: Pakistan steps up shelling across Line of Control
Over the past few weeks, the Indian armed forces have accused Pakistan of multiple violations of the cease-fire across the Line of Control which was agreed to in 2021. In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan intensified shelling across the Line of Control which has hit civilian areas in India and reportedly claimed the lives of several civilians.

"I think the India-Pakistan cease-fire agreement is dead and you're going to see a lot more firing on both sides of the Line of Control," says former Northern Army Commander Lt Gen. D.S. Hooda.

But it may not stop at that.

Scenario 2: Pakistan responds with air strikes