How did the international media respond to PM Modi's warnings against nuclear blackmail

International media coverage of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warnings against nuclear blackmail during and after Operation Sindoor was extensive and highlighted a significant shift in India’s security doctrine. Leading global outlets such as The Washington Post, The Guardian, and BBC News prominently reported on Modi’s assertive language, particularly his message that India would not be deterred by nuclear threats from Pakistan and would retaliate decisively against any future terror attacks. Western media emphasized the emergence of a “new normal” in India’s counter-terrorism strategy, noting Modi’s declaration that terror and talks cannot coexist, and that India’s military action had only been “paused,” not ended. The UK’s The Guardian and the US-based Washington Post both highlighted Modi’s explicit rejection of nuclear blackmail, framing it as a clear warning to Islamabad that India would not tolerate the use of nuclear threats as a shield for cross-border terrorism. Outlets in Europe and Asia, including The Japan Times and France24, also underscored Modi’s stance, with coverage focusing on India’s resolve to strike with precision and decisiveness against terrorist groups “thriving under the cover of nuclear blackmail”. Meanwhile, U.S. and Israeli media were generally supportive of India’s right to self-defense, while Chinese coverage urged restraint and emphasized the need for regional stability. Pakistani media, in contrast, focused on Modi’s statements as evidence of Indian aggression, but also acknowledged the international attention given to India’s rejection of nuclear blackmail. Overall, the international media portrayed Modi’s warnings as a doctrinal shift, signaling India’s hardened stance against both terrorism and the strategic use of nuclear threats, and marking a new phase in South Asian security dynamics.

5/15/20251 min read