While the announcement of de-escalation between Paki­stan and India is a welcome development, it is far from the end of our strategic vigilance. A ceasefire on paper does not always translate to calm on the ground, especially along a Line of Control that has rarely known true silence. Reports of violations mere hours after the declaration are a grim reminder that India’s record in this regard—much like its ally Israel’s—has been one of frequent breaches cloaked in diplomatic niceties.

It is important to recognise that the restraint shown by Paki­stan was not born out of weakness, but strength. The prepared­ness and composure of our armed forces ensured that India’s provocations did not escalate into a catastrophe that two nucle­ar-armed states could reach. This is not just a military success; it is a diplomatic message: provocations will be met with resolve, but not recklessness.

Yet, this is hardly the time to let our guard down. India’s re­cent behaviour—both in terms of aggressive military postur­ing and violations of international norms—calls for sustained strategic alertness. The Indus Water Treaty, once a pillar of co­operation, now hangs in precarious balance. Should India de­cide to weaponise water, the consequences would not be con­fined to diplomatic desks; they would spill into the lives and livelihoods of millions.

So yes, we hope for peace. But peace without trust is fragile. And trust—especially in this context—must be earned through consistent action, not press statements. Pakistan’s long-term strategy must now be one of firm engagement paired with un­blinking vigilance. Because while we may have stepped back from the brink this time, the road ahead is still flanked by shadows.