BETWEEN INEVITABILITY AND OPPORTUNITY: HOW PAKISTANIS VIEWED THE 2025 INDO-PAK WAR

Abstract

This study, conducted by the Institute of International Relations & Media Research, examines perceptions of Pakistanis during May 2025 Indo-Pak clashes. This research used a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative survey analysis with qualitative thematic interpretation. The research draws on responses from diverse demographic and professional groups, including the judiciary, government officials, general public, military personnel, business leaders, educators, and cultural sector representatives to provide a multi-dimensional understanding of public opinion. Quantitative findings reveal that a majority leaned toward viewing the war as unavoidable, with high approval for government crisis management and strong consensus on the war’s unifying effect. However, perceptions of media fairness, the war’s economic impact, the role of the international community, and the possibility of future peace were more divided, showing cautious optimism mixed with skepticism. Thematic analysis uncovers how institutional roles and lived experiences shape interpretations. Judiciary respondents emphasized legal mechanisms and dispute resolution, government officials highlighted security and diplomatic strength, and the military underscored readiness and morale. The general public’s responses ranged from patriotic pride to criticism of leadership and media bias, while business leaders focused on trade disruption and economic stability. Educators advocated for long-term peacebuilding through knowledge exchange, and cultural representatives emphasized the power of shared identity and soft diplomacy. By integrating statistical trends with rich qualitative narratives, this study shows that while the war fostered short-term unity, perceptions of its causes, costs, and long-term implications remain diverse. The findings suggest that sustainable peace will require a multi-pronged approach blending legal, diplomatic, military, economic, educational, and cultural strategies to bridge differences and prevent future conflicts.