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Could India, Pakistan use nuclear weapons? Here’s what their doctrines say

Al Jazeera
Summary
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78% Informative

Pakistan said it struck multiple Indian military bases in the early hours of Saturday , May 10 , after claiming that India had launched missiles against three Pakistani bases.

The nations have engaged in a series of tit-for-tat moves that began with diplomatic steps but have rapidly turned into aerial military confrontation.

An all-out war between them would be the first ever between two nuclear-armed nations.

India ’s nuclear doctrine is built around four principles: - No First Use (NFU) - Massive Retaliation (NFU) - Credible Minimum Deterrence.

India commits to not using nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states.

It will only retaliate with nuclear weapons if it is first hit in a nuclear attack.

India maintains that its nuclear arsenal is insurance against such attacks.

Pakistan has never officially released a comprehensive policy statement on its nuclear weapons use.