Around 14 long months have passed since India and Pakistan fought a four-day war . The brief and dangerous conflict has left relations between the nuclear-armed rivals dangerously tense. Still, a survey of historical precedents, an evaluation of contemporary geo-economics, and a growing awareness of the grim dangers of renewed escalation suggest the relationship could gradually improve. At least, until the next crisis hits. The conflict in May 2025 was arguably the most serious between India