One has heard of friends with benefits. But in India’s case, there are also antagonists with benefits: Azerbaijan and Turkey, two countries whose role in the latest conflict between India and Pakistan has come into sharp focus.

The past week saw India and Pakistan exchange heavy fire after New Delhi launched Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. Artillery guns screamed on the borders and the people of the two countries argued on social media

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti urged opposition parties to support the Modi government’s peace initiatives, particularly the recent ceasefire. She emphasized the need for bipartisan statesmanship and a national consensus, drawing parallels to past leaders who engaged across borders during tense times. Mufti also criticized media narratives for distracting from real issues and fueling division.