The Center for Security, Strategy and Policy Research at the University of Lahore convened a high-level webinar to mark the first anniversary of the May 2025 conflict widely known in Pakistan as Marka-e-Haq. Moderated by Dr. Rabia Akhtar, the event framed discussions under the theme ‘Deterrence to Diplomacy Pakistan’s Strategic Repositioning’ and drew leading analysts and former diplomats to assess long-term implications.
Speakers included Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Dr. Adil Sultan, Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal, Dr. Maria Sultan, Air Commodore (R) Khalid Banuri, Dr. Salma Malik and Sayed Ali Zia Jaffery, who evaluated military, diplomatic and technological dimensions of the crisis. Panelists examined how the May 2025 confrontation affected Pakistan’s strategic calculus and regional posture.
Participants described Marka-e-Haq as a turning point that challenged assumptions about India’s unilateral escalation dominance and helped restore a more balanced deterrence equilibrium. The discussion highlighted Pakistan’s conventional military preparedness and the integration of air and electronic warfare capabilities, while stressing that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, cyber tools and space systems will shape future conflicts.
On the diplomatic front, panelists argued that Pakistan emerged from the crisis with greater strategic confidence and enhanced regional relevance. They pointed to shifting alignments, an expanding role as a provider of stability in the neighbourhood, and the critical need for narrative resilience in the face of disinformation and broader geopolitical contestation.
At the same time experts warned against complacency, noting that India is likely to accelerate military and technological recalibration. A broad consensus held that the strategic gains associated with Marka-e-Haq can only be sustained through sustained economic resilience, stronger institutions, investment in technological innovation and the development of human capital.
The webinar concluded that Marka-e-Haq has reshaped strategic perceptions in South Asia and underscored the imperative of responsible statecraft and forward-looking preparedness as Pakistan navigates an evolving regional security environment.
