New Delhi, April 29, 2025: Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply since the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. The incident has sparked outrage among Indians worldwide, with calls for retribution echoing loudly. Pakistan, visibly rattled by the prospect of India’s response, faces a precarious situation. In a swift diplomatic strike, India suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, prompting Pakistan’s leaders, including Bilawal Bhutto, to issue war threats. However, analysts dismiss these as Pakistan’s familiar bluster, masking its vulnerabilities.

Can Pakistan retaliate if India launches a larger operation or military strike? In a word, no. Four critical factors highlight Pakistan’s helplessness.

First, it lacks international backing. Even China, its closest ally, has distanced itself from conflict. “China seeks to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with India,” a recent Chinese foreign ministry statement declared. Beyond Turkey’s limited support, no major power stands with Pakistan. Russia openly backs India, while the U.S. and U.K. are unlikely to oppose New Delhi.

Second, Pakistan’s economy and military are unprepared for war. Crippled by debt and inflation, its economy is in shambles. A Pakistani parliamentarian warned, “War with India would ruin our economy further.” The military fares no better; Myanmar recently rejected Pakistan’s JF-16 fighter jets as “scrap.”

Third, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has urged restraint. “War will only harm Pakistan,” he advised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, advocating diplomacy over confrontation.

Finally, Pakistan’s long-standing ties to terrorism undermine its credibility. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif admitted, “We supported terrorism for decades.” The Pahalgam attack, claimed by the Lashkar-e-Taiba-linked TRF, contradicts Pakistan’s claims of disavowing terrorism. With global isolation, a weakened military, and internal economic turmoil, Pakistan stands powerless against India’s potential actions, leaving it vulnerable and exposed.