In the wake of a devastating terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that left 26 people dead, including many tourists, former US National Security Advisor John Bolton has weighed in on India's response. Speaking in an exclusive interview with NDTV, Bolton emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has exercised significant restraint in dealing with Pakistan, particularly in light of past experiences like the 2019 Pulwama attack, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF soldiers.
Bolton remarked, "I think Prime Minister Narendra Modi exercised a great deal of restraint, having been through a similar episode in 2019." He noted that the Kashmir issue remains a persistent source of tension between the two nuclear-armed nations. The former NSA underscored the importance of India demonstrating to the world that it has made every effort to seek a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflict with Pakistan.
In his comments, Bolton also pointed out that India's right to self-defense is legitimate, especially when faced with the threat of terrorism. "India is entitled to retaliate and try to eliminate terrorist threats to its sovereignty and people," he stated, while also urging the Indian government to exhaust all diplomatic avenues before resorting to military action.
Bolton's remarks come amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam attack, which was claimed by The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. In response to the attack, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has mandated extensive civil defense drills across several states on May 7, 2025, to prepare for potential threats. These drills will include measures such as air raid sirens, civilian training, blackout protocols, camouflaging installations, and updating evacuation plans.
Reflecting on the broader geopolitical context, Bolton suggested that India should leverage its relationship with China to pressure Pakistan into controlling terrorist groups operating from its territory. He explained, "I think there are two possible approaches to take and am sure the Indian government has already thought of this. No 1. I'd be concerned about the growing Chinese influence on Pakistan. This needs to be put on the table between India and Pakistan." He added that India should communicate to Pakistan the need to resolve issues without external influence.
Bolton's call for diplomatic engagement aligns with the sentiments expressed by US Vice President JD Vance, who recently stated that India's response to the Pahalgam attack should be measured to prevent a wider regional conflict. Vance emphasized the necessity for Pakistan to cooperate with India in combating extremism.
As the situation unfolds, many in India are anticipating a military response from the government, especially after reports indicated that Modi had granted the armed forces a "free hand" in selecting targets for potential strikes. This echoes the swift response following the 2019 Pulwama attack, which resulted in airstrikes on terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan.
Bolton cautioned, however, that any military response should be precise and directed specifically at the group responsible for the attack. He articulated, "I think if India's retaliation was directed against the group that carried out the attack... if it were precise... then it would demonstrate India has no larger ambition and give Pakistan a face-saving opportunity to step back and restart diplomatic negotiations."
He further acknowledged the complexity of the Kashmir issue, stating, "Even neighbors can disagree... and disagree strongly... but resorting to terrorism is never an acceptable way of expressing disagreement." Bolton's insights reflect a nuanced understanding of the delicate balance required in navigating the India-Pakistan relationship.
As tensions remain high, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in the region. Bolton's comments serve as a reminder of the critical need for diplomatic efforts to address the underlying issues fueling conflict between India and Pakistan. With the world watching, the choices made by both nations in the coming days could have far-reaching implications for regional stability.
