India and Pakistan accuse each other of mishandling their nuclear arsenals, prompting global alarm about the risk of a complete war days after their last major military conflict in 20 years. After Sunday’s reported ceasefire between the two sides, it’s clear that nuclear weapons are not being kept securely by either nation.
Related Links:
- Learn about nuclear weapons at SpaceWar.com
- Explore missile defense strategies
- Find out more about missiles
- Discover the superpowers of the future
Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh called for UN monitoring of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, while Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar suggested investigating India’s activities involving ammonia leaks as an indicator of a nuclear black market. But a firm ceasefire was agreed to extend until May 18 this week.
While last month’s targeted strikes by Pakistan were aimed at militant cells, India’s hard line against terrorism and its disruptiveness across the border may create a difficult future for the ceasefire. Parameters related to a non-permanent treaty will remain suspended if the danger continues from both nations. A complete war would disrupt water supplies and national security of more than a billion people.
