But the question is – where has our so-called diplomacy got us either ? Doing nothing or appearing to do nothing is taken as a sign of weakness by the enemy. Besides, our national leaderships has often failed at good diplomacy. We have not been able to get people like Dawood Ibrahim or Abu Salem extradited to India for standing trials. Till a few years ago, our lobbying power in the US was laughable. I remember the difference in response from the American govt when Pokhran-II happened – it was so sympathetic to Pakistan, whose ‘hands were forced’ in order to ‘balance’ things in South Asia.

We need not be as belligerent as Israel – especially the way they have gone after Lebanon this time – but perhaps it is necessary to flex your millitary muscles from time to time. I am not a millitary expert – but my question is – can’t we lead targeted attacks at terrorist training camps ? Can’t we get the US to share intelligence on such camps (since it is in their interest too) ?

Israel’s approach has earned it the hatred of every Islamic country in the world, and that is something India could do without, since we have historically had good ties with most countries (besides, we do still need gas from Iran and oil from Saudi )

Kudos! e.t.c…Thanks for the cite.

Now, if only someone would explain what should we do with Pakistan if not go for wa direct military action. Diplomacy? Has it ever worked?

While I largely agree with you, that the Indian response to the blasts has been disappointingly tepid and meek…After this week’s bombings of Lebanon, I can’t help but be gratified by the restrain shown by the Indian government. It wouldn’t have been useful or meaningful to go and bomb Pakistan. It’s hardly the answer. And while I don’t claim to be the Buddha, I know better than to ignore our history. Something I wish our world leaders were better at remembering.