India-Pakistan Tensions: Gautam Bambawale Describes Post-Operation Sindoor Scenario as 'War-like'

India-Pakistan Tensions: Gautam Bambawale Describes Post-Operation Sindoor Scenario as 'War-like'​

Pune, May 10 — Former High Commissioner to Pakistan, Gautam Bambawale, has termed the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor as a "war-like situation", emphasising the Central government's "steely resolve" and clarity of purpose.

Speaking during a panel discussion on Operation Sindoor organised by the Pune International Centre (PIC) on Friday, Bambawale, who has also served as India's ambassador to China, underlined that while India is not currently engaged in a full-scale war, it stands on the edge of one.

"We are at the edge of getting into a full-scale war, but we are not yet there," Bambawale stated.

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Three Pillars of Strength in a War-like Situation​

Bambawale identified three crucial components that determine a nation's strength during such critical times:

1. The Government
   He commended the Indian government’s consistent strategic focus over the past decade, saying:
   
   

   "They know what they want to do and what they want to target."

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2. The Armed Forces
   Acknowledging the operational prowess of the military, he said:
   
   

   "The Indian Armed Forces have shown their capability and steely resolve in the last few days."

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3. The People
   Highlighting the importance of civilian resilience, he urged the nation to brace for retaliatory actions.
   
   

   "This is a fight for justice against terrorism... The people must stay focused and united."

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Bambawale also made special mention of those living in border areas, like Poonch, who have been victims of cross-border aggression, reinforcing the need for national solidarity.

High-Profile Military Panel Discusses Operation Sindoor​

The panel featured notable retired military figures:

• Lt Gen V G Patankar
• Col. Vinayak Bhat
• Air Marshal Dipendu Choudhury
• Captain D K Sharma

The discussion was moderated by Major General Nitin Gadkari (Retd), Director of PIC, offering a strategic deep-dive into the implications of India's recent military actions.