Kashmir, Rafale, & Modi: How Pakistan turned a crisis into diplomatic gain

Pakistan’s military response to Indian missile and drone strikes was swift and calculated. The Pakistan Air Force launched "Operation Bunyan Marsoos," demonstrating its advanced warfare capabilities.

Pakistani forces reportedly downed multiple Indian aircraft, including at least one Rafale fighter jet, using a coordinated strategy enabled by Chinese-supplied J-10C jets, PL-15E beyond-visual-range missiles, and HQ-9P air defence systems.

These systems, tested in real-time combat, proved effective and triggered a surge in Chinese defence stocks globally.

The operational highlight was Pakistan's use of an integrated ABC model: targets were locked by ground radars (A), missiles were launched by fighter jets (B), and guided by airborne warning and control systems (C).

This advanced, networked combat approach outperformed India’s fragmented response and signalled a shift from traditional air combat to intelligent warfare.

Kashmir issue internationalised

While Indian authorities attempted to frame the ceasefire as a mutual decision, US President Donald Trump publicly contradicted that version.

Speaking during his Saudi Arabia visit, Trump declared, "My administration successfully brokered a historic ceasefire to stop the escalating violence between India and Pakistan. I used trade to a large extent to do it." He went on to praise Senator Marco Rubio and his team for negotiating the agreement, adding that their intervention potentially prevented the deaths of millions.

This direct contradiction exposed India’s attempt to claim credit for de-escalation and underscored Pakistan’s openness to global mediation a long-standing strategic goal.

Trump’s public remarks revived international focus on Kashmir and validated Pakistan’s call for third-party intervention.

Diplomatic wins and narrative control

Pakistan's credibility was further boosted by its immediate and consistent denial of involvement in the Pahalgam attack that sparked the conflict. Islamabad called for an independent investigation, signalling transparency.

This move garnered support from several global leaders who urged restraint and advised India against disproportionate retaliation.

Additionally, Pakistan successfully exposed the weaknesses in Indian media and official messaging.

Misinformation, exaggerated claims, and contradictory statements from Indian officials led to widespread skepticism among Indian citizens and observers abroad.

The contrasting clarity and coherence in Pakistan’s communication gave it a distinct edge in narrative control.

Strengthened China-Pakistan Defence Ties

The conflict also served as a real-time demonstration of Chinese defence technology, reinforcing the China-Pakistan strategic alliance.

With Pakistan using Chinese-made combat platforms and air defence systems to effective results, military cooperation between the two countries is expected to deepen.

China’s global defence profile received a boost, with stocks of arms manufacturers surging post-conflict.

From military performance to diplomatic positioning, Pakistan emerged from the four-day standoff with India in a stronger position.

It successfully countered Indian aggression, forced a ceasefire mediated by the United States, and drew international attention back to the Kashmir dispute.

By showcasing operational prowess and maintaining narrative clarity, Pakistan not only deterred further escalation but also elevated its standing on the global stage.