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 multiple potential approaches India could take, from military action to diplomatic engagement. The authors draw on extensive research and interviews to evaluate the costs, benefits, and risks of different policy choices available to Indian leadership. Their analysis covers military capabilities, nuclear deterrence dynamics, and the complex historical relationship between the two nations. The book considers how India's responses to terrorism must account for Pakistan's internal political landscape and security establishment. It explores how various Indian strategies could affect regional stability and international relationships. At its core, this work grapples with fundamental questions about how nuclear-armed states can manage conflict below the threshold of war. The analysis provides insights into the broader challenges of counterterrorism and strategic deterrence in the modern era.

Readers value the book's detailed analysis of India-Pakistan relations and its examination of military, diplomatic, and covert options. Military professionals and policy analysts commend the research depth and practical policy recommendations. Positives: - Clear breakdown of India's strategic choices - In-depth exploration of nuclear deterrence dynamics - Balanced perspective on both countries' positions - Data-driven approach to policy analysis Criticisms: - Some readers found the policy prescriptions too cautious - A few note the book focuses more on India's options than Pakistan's motivations - Several mention the academic writing style can be dense Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (31 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (16 ratings) One defense analyst on Amazon praised the "comprehensive framework for understanding India's strategic constraints," while a Goodreads reviewer noted the book "could have explored Pakistan's internal dynamics more deeply." [Note: Limited review data available online for this academic/policy book]

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🔹 The book explores the complex challenge India faces in deterring Pakistan-backed terrorism without triggering a nuclear conflict, examining various military and non-military options available to Indian policymakers. 🔹 Author George Perkovich previously served as a speechwriter for then-Senator Joe Biden and is now vice president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. 🔹 The book's research draws from over 100 interviews with military officials, diplomats, and strategists from both India and Pakistan, providing unique insider perspectives on cross-border tensions. 🔹 Co-author Toby Dalton pioneered the creation of the Carnegie Nuclear Policy Program's South Asia Project, which focuses on nuclear security issues in the region. 🔹 The book was published in 2016, shortly after the Uri attack in Kashmir, making its analysis particularly relevant to understanding India's subsequent "surgical strikes" against militant bases in Pakistan-controlled territory.