Pakistan, May 10 -- A gruesome militant attack in Pahalgam on April 22 claimed the lives of twenty-six civilians. What should have been a tragedy of human concern quickly evolved into a predictable diplomatic and strategic standoff between India and Pakistan. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, India pointed fingers across the border, blaming Pakistan-based militant networks for orchestrating the assault. Pakistan, as expected, issued a strong denial. But this aspect went beyond statements and briefings issued by both countries.

India's deployment of INS Vikrant to the Arabian Sea after the Pahalgam incident was not coincidental. It was more calculated, highly deliberate, and intended to serve its own purpose. The symbolism was not...