Cross-Border Terrorism and the India-Pakistan Security Dilemma

This article examines the persistent challenge of cross-border terrorism between India and Pakistan within the framework of the security dilemma in international relations. It argues that the asymmetric use of non-state actors by Pakistan, under the shield of nuclear deterrence, has significantly exacerbated bilateral tensions and impeded peaceful conflict resolution. Drawing on historical events, such as the Kargil War (1999), the Mumbai attacks (2008), and the Pulwama incident (2019), the paper highlights how terrorism has blurred the lines between war and peace, creating a volatile security environment. The study further analyzes how both countries' military doctrines and political narratives have reinforced strategic mistrust. It also investigates the role of international actors and institutions including the United States, China, the United Nations, and the Financial Action Task Force in shaping the trajectory of the conflict. The article concludes by proposing multi-layered policy solutions focused on deterrence stability, counter-terrorism cooperation, economic interdependence, and people-to-people engagement as pathways toward sustainable peace in South Asia