LETTERS – AUG & SEPT 2025
A Call for De-escalation in South Asia
Dear Editor
I am writing in response to your powerful editorial, ‘Pakistan’s poisonous pact’, and Amit Agnihotri’s insightful piece, ‘Water as Weapon’, in the June-July 2025 issue of Asian Affairs. Both articles paint a grim picture of the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, highlighting the devastating impact of state-sponsored terrorism and the perilous game of geopolitical chess being played with vital resources.
While the catalogue of Pakistan’s alleged transgressions is indeed concerning, and India’s frustration understandable, I worry that focusing solely on assigning blame risks overlooking the complex, deeply entrenched historical and political factors that perpetuate this cycle of conflict. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, though a powerful diplomatic move, could have dire humanitarian consequences for Pakistan’s already struggling population, which could lead to more instability andworsening of the situation.
For true and lasting peace, we need more than just punitive measures. We need genuine, sustained diplomatic engagement that addresses the root causes of mistrust and discontent on both sides. For the nuclear-armed neighbours, the stakes are too high. A concerted effort towards de-escalation and dialogue are the only path towards a durable peace.
Ahmed Khan
Islamabad
Sri Lanka's Democratic Shift
Sir,
Neville de Silva’s article, ‘Another tsunami sweeps Sri Lanka’, provided a fascinating account of the recent political earthquake on the island. The rise of the NPP, sweeping aside entrenched political dynasties, is a significant moment in Sri Lankan history. It offers a glimmer of hope for a new era of governance that is free from corruption and cronyism.
But, as we celebrate this ‘peaceful democratic transformation’, we should remain vigilant. History teaches us that such seismic shifts, while promising, can also bring unforeseen challenges. The true test of this new alliance will be its ability to translate popular mandate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens and uphold democratic principles, while safeguarding minority rights. The article rightly points to the JVP’s past, and though Dissanayake is presented as a progressive socialist, the past must serve as a reminder for his government to be accountable and inclusive.
The world will be watching to see if this political tsunami truly ushers in an era of stability and progress, or if it merely shifts the sands upon which Sri Lanka’s future is built.
Raju Chengapa
Chennai, India
Middle East on the Brink
Dear Editor,
YS Gill’s analysis, “Escalation, aggression and the shadow of genocide,” on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran left me deeply disturbed. The detailed account of military strikes, retaliatory actions, and the devastating human toll in Gaza underscores a region, teetering on the precipice of an unimaginable catastrophe.
The statistics on civilian deaths, forced displacement, and destroyed infrastructure in Gaza are horrifying. It calls for urgent global attention. The International Court of Justice’s call for measures to stop genocide cannot be ignored. Though the article highlights the tactical objectives of both sides, it is the humanitarian disaster and the potential for wider regional conflict that is truly chilling.
It is imperative that international bodies and influential nations redouble their efforts to broker a lasting ceasefire and initiate meaningful diplomatic solutions. The cycle of aggression and retaliation must be broken, and the focus must shift immediately to protecting civilian lives and establishing a path towards sustainable peace. Without such intervention, the consequences for the Middle East, and indeed the world, could be irreparable.
Dr Elias Al-Hamad.
Amman, Jordan
Letters with full name and complete address may be emailed to asianaffairsuk@gmail.com; asianaffairs94@gmail.com Letters may be edited and rewritten for space or
clarity.