Narendra Modi on Pakistan

Narendra Modi has generally adopted a tough stance toward Pakistan, placing India's neighborhood security as a top foreign policy priority. His government has taken actions such as cancelling scheduled foreign-secretary level talks over meetings with Kashmiri separatists and intensifying firing across the Line of Control. The principal security threat, from the Indian security establishment’s view, is spectacular terror attacks orchestrated by Pakistan-based militant groups, with complicity often attributed to elements within Pakistan's security establishment. Furthermore, recent diplomatic moves, like expanding strategic cooperation with Israel, are seen as increasing pressure on Islamabad, especially as the relationship is framed around countering perceived 'Islamic radicalism' and security threats.

Despite an initial outreach, which included inviting neighboring leaders to his swearing-in ceremony, Modi's policy has seen significant shifts toward greater firmness. The perceived lack of action by Pakistan regarding the trial of alleged perpetrators of past terror attacks has been a point of contention, leading to bilateral talks being suspended or cancelled on multiple occasions. Moreover, when celebrating political or sporting victories over Pakistan, the Prime Minister has contentiously invoked recent military conflict, suggesting a linkage between national security posture and public success against the regional rival.