If Pak attacks, we will retaliate harder: PM Modi to Vance on ceasefire

During the conversation regarding the de-escalation agreement with Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed US Vice President JD Vance that if Pakistan were to strike India, the nation would respond decisively, according to government sources on Sunday.

After Vance’s dialogue with Prime Minister Modi, talks occurred with Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, followed by discussions with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Nonetheless, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed Jaishankar that the conversation was not meant to address an off-ramp. New Delhi indicated throughout the talks that if Pakistan refrains from firing, India will likewise show restraint, sources reported.

An earlier report indicated that Vance contacted PM Modi directly to promote discussions for a ceasefire, after Washington received “alarming intelligence.” Although the specifics of the intelligence were kept confidential because of its sensitive nature, the report indicated that it was crucial in prompting immediate action from top US officials. Vance allegedly informed the Prime Minister of a “strong likelihood of significant escalation” during the weekend.

The sources mentioned that although Pakistan suggested conducting discussions at the National Security Advisors (NSA) level, no conversations occurred at either the NSA or Foreign Minister level. Conversations took place involving the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO). In conjunction with JD Vance’s conversation with the Prime Minister, officials from the Ministry of External Affairs tackled various unresolved queries that emerged after the unexpected declaration to reduce the tensions between the two countries.