rivalry in the Indian subcontinent: An analytical study of the civilizational and strategic dimensions of the Indian -Pakistan war

Tawfeeq, Saif Nussrat; Ghwaeed, Raaed Fadhel; Merei, Muthanna Faiq; Ibrahim, Sufyan Mohammed

doi:10.22034/igq.2026.594525.2205

rivalry in the Indian subcontinent: An analytical study of the civilizational and strategic dimensions of the Indian -Pakistan war

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Saif Nussrat Tawfeeq ¹

Raaed fadhel ghwaeed ²

Muthanna Faiq Merei ³

Sufyan Mohammed Ibrahim ¹

¹ Tikrit University, College of Political Science, Salah-aldeen, Iraq.

² Al-Hadara College, Salah-aldeen, Iraq

³ Tikrit University, College of Political Science, Salah-aldeen, Iraq

10.22034/igq.2026.594525.2205

Abstract

This study examines the Indo-Pakistani rivalry as a complex and ongoing conflict within the international system, originating primarily after the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947 and the resulting border and sovereignty disputes, most notably the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. The dimensions of the conflict are not limited to the political and military spheres, but extend to religious, cultural, and historical factors that contribute to shaping national identities and reinforcing mutual distrust. Furthermore, the possession of nuclear capabilities by both countries has heightened the risks associated with any confrontation, making the conflict a significant factor in South Asian security and international stability, As question How do cultural, political, and strategic factors interact to perpetuate rivalry in the Indian subcontinent, and what are its implications for regional and international security?

Main Findings: The study indicates that the continuation of the conflict is linked to the overlap of border issues with competing identities and strategic interests, and that diplomatic efforts have failed to achieve a sustainable settlement due to the unresolved core issues. Therefore, achieving peace requires a comprehensive approach that integrates cultural and strategic analysis.

Keywords

India

Pakistan

the Indian -Pakistan war

civilizational-strategic dimensions

Indian subcontinent rivalry

Subjects