The recent India-Pakistan military confrontation has reshaped domestic political dynamics on both sides of the border. While the guns have fallen silent following a hastily brokered ceasefire between the nuclear powers, the political aftershocks are reverberating across the region.

Perhaps the most consequential and surprising outcome has been the unexpected reputational boon for Pakistan’s until now embattled establishment, which has managed to consolidate its position amid the crisis.

In stark contrast, New Delhi emerges diplomatically isolated and strategically diminished, having squandered an opportunity to both press its case against alleged Pakistan-abetted terrorism and advance regional hegemony on its own terms.

Before the conflict, Pakistan’s establishment was on the political back foot. Domestically, it faced growing public anger over the perceived manipulation of the February 2024 general elections.