Here’s a summary of the key events and facts presented in the provided text:

Border Skirmishes: Troops from India and Pakistan exchanged fire along the line of control in the Leepa valley. Both sides claim the other initiated the firing with small arms.No casualties were reported.
High-level Security Review: India’s army chief is leading a security review in Srinagar following a militant attack that killed 26 civilians.
Aftermath of the Attack: Indian forces have launched search operations and are demolishing the houses of suspected militants. Tensions between India and Pakistan have increased.
International Response: The UN has urged both India and Pakistan too exercise restraint and resolve issues peacefully.
Escalating Tensions: Relations between the two countries are at their lowest in years, with India accusing Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism.
Military Activity: India has begun large-scale air and naval drills.

Given Professor Sharma’s emphasis on dialog and trust-building, what specific steps can India and Pakistan take to facilitate meaningful communication, even at a preliminary level?

Archyde Interview: Expert on India-pakistan Tensions Analyzes Recent Escalation

Welcome to Archyde.Today, we have Professor Anya Sharma, a leading expert in South Asian geopolitics from the Institute for Strategic Studies, joining us to discuss the recent escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan. Professor Sharma, thank you for being with us.

Understanding the Current Situation

Professor Sharma: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time, and I’m glad to provide some insights.

Archyde News Editor: Professor, could you start by painting a picture of the current situation? We’ve seen reports of border skirmishes, a serious militant attack in Srinagar, and increased military activity. What’s your assessment?

Professor Sharma: The situation is incredibly volatile. The exchange of fire along the Line of Control in the leepa valley is a perilous advancement in itself. More alarming is the militant attack in Srinagar, wich has further fueled tensions. The ensuing security review lead by India’s army chief underlines the gravity of the situation. India’s large-scale air and naval drills indicate a potential readiness for more active operations, and this is cause for concern.

Analyzing the Root causes

Archyde News editor: India has accused pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, which has been a recurring point of contention. How significant is that factor in the current escalation?

Professor Sharma: It’s a fundamental issue. India’s accusations of Pakistan’s support for militant groups are the core reason for strain in the relationship, even going back decades. These accusations have led to a high degree of mistrust and complicate any attempts at de-escalation. Without a solid resolution to these core issues, sustainable peace is nearly impossible.

The International Response and Future Outlook

Archyde News Editor: The UN has called for restraint. What steps would you suggest to de-escalate the situation, and what role can international bodies play?

Professor Sharma: The UN’s call for restraint is essential, but more is needed. Direct dialogue, even at a preliminary level, between india and Pakistan is crucial. In this process, each side has to show more transparency and to ensure the Line of Control is protected. Diplomatic efforts from international stakeholders, possibly involving mediation or facilitation, could play a significant role in encouraging dialogue and ensuring that agreements are honored.

Archyde News Editor: Relations are at their lowest in years. Do you see any paths toward a resolution, or at least a reduction in tensions, in near future?

Professor Sharma: The path forward is fraught with challenges. However, neither country can afford an all-out conflict, especially at this moment. Both India and Pakistan must recognize the shared interest in regional stability. A process of building trust must begin with reducing the reliance on violent rhetoric. To succeed, mutual understanding is vital – it won’t be easy to reach.

Archyde News Editor: Professor Sharma, thank you for your insights.It is hard to find a speedy conclusion to an issue as problematic as this; do you think civil society groups can play a role by bringing peace?

Professor Sharma: That’s a very insightful question. Absolutely. Civil society plays a critical role. Community dialogue and peace initiatives can provide more opportunities across borders. By encouraging trust and human connections, civil society groups might pave the way for diplomatic progress. It is a long-term investment, but they would play a remarkable function.

Archyde News Editor: Thank you again for your time and to the readers who engaged with this interview.