Not War, Not Peace? Motivating Pakistan to Prevent Cross-Border Terrorism

Not War, Not Peace? examines India's strategic options for responding to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan. The book analyzes military, economic, and diplomatic approaches India could pursue to alter Pakistan's behavior and reduce terrorist threats. Authors George Perkovich and Toby Dalton draw from extensive research and interviews with security officials to evaluate potential Indian policies. Their analysis covers major historical incidents, current capabilities, and the complex dynamics between the two nuclear-armed states. The work focuses on four key strategic options available to India: military strikes, covert operations, non-violent compellence, and territorial defense improvements. Each approach is assessed for its feasibility, risks, and likelihood of achieving India's security objectives. This study provides an analytical framework for understanding South Asian security challenges and the limitations of traditional deterrence between nuclear powers. The authors' systematic examination raises important questions about how states can address asymmetric threats in the modern era.

Readers view this book as a practical analysis of India-Pakistan relations focused on preventing terrorism. The academic and policy audience appreciates the detailed examination of India's military, economic and diplomatic options. Liked: - Research depth into military capabilities and constraints - Clear breakdown of policy choices and likely outcomes - Balanced perspective considering both countries' positions Disliked: - Dense academic writing style - Limited discussion of pre-1998 history - Some readers found policy recommendations too cautious Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (28 ratings) Amazon India: 4.3/5 (12 ratings) "Provides a realistic view rather than hawkish solutions" - Goodreads reviewer "Could have included more historical context" - Amazon reviewer "Valuable for understanding strategic limitations both sides face" - Carnegie review The book received more attention from policy analysts and academics than general readers, with most reviews appearing in foreign policy journals and think tank publications.

Fighting to the End: The Pakistan Army's Way of War by C. Christine Fair Analysis of Pakistan's military doctrine and strategic culture provides deeper context for understanding cross-border tensions with India.

Nuclear South Asia: Keywords and Concepts by Amit Julka and Happymon Jacob Examination of nuclear deterrence and security dynamics between India and Pakistan builds on themes of conflict prevention and escalation management.

Terrorism in Pakistan: The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) by Syed Manzar Abbas Zaidi Investigation of Pakistan's domestic terrorism challenges illuminates the complexity of cross-border terrorism issues.

The China-Pakistan Axis: Asia's New Geopolitics by Andrew Small Study of Pakistan's relationship with China reveals regional alliance structures that influence South Asian security dynamics.

The Army and Democracy: Military Politics in Pakistan by Aqil Shah Analysis of civil-military relations in Pakistan provides foundation for understanding Pakistan's security decision-making processes.

🔷 George Perkovich serves as the Ken Olivier and Angela Nomellini Chair and Vice President of Studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, where he focuses on nuclear strategy and nonproliferation. 🔷 The book examines India's options for responding to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, including military strikes, covert operations, and non-violent approaches like economic and diplomatic pressure. 🔷 The authors conducted over 200 interviews with military officials, diplomats, and policymakers in India, Pakistan, and the United States while researching this book. 🔷 The book challenges the conventional wisdom that surgical strikes and other limited military actions would effectively deter Pakistan-based terrorism against India. 🔷 Published in 2016, the book's analysis gained renewed relevance after the 2016 Uri attack and India's subsequent surgical strikes across the Line of Control in Kashmir.