Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned Pakistan on Friday that India would respond forcefully to any future attacks, as the country marked its 78th Independence Day.
Addressing the nation from the historic Red Fort, Modi said India has adopted a “new normal” of no distinction between “terrorists” and their supporters, rejecting what he called Islamabad’s “nuclear blackmail.” He declared that such threats would no longer be tolerated.
The remarks come three months after India and Pakistan fought their fiercest clashes in decades, sparked by an April massacre in Indian-controlled Kashmir that killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan-based militants; Islamabad denied involvement. The May fighting, involving airstrikes, missile barrages, and drone attacks, killed dozens on both sides before a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on May 10.
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Modi also hinted at continuing India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, saying, “Blood and water will not flow together.” Pakistan has warned that blocking river flows would be seen as an act of war.
Without directly addressing U.S. tariffs on India, Modi vowed not to compromise on agricultural interests in trade talks with Washington.
Source: Agency