A "no first use" policy is adopted by nuclear powers, which postulates the use of a nuclear deterrent only when there is a direct military provocation; with India adopting that policy since 1998.

According to Munir Ahmed, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, India's "so-called" no first use policy lacks credence. He cited India's "cold-start" doctrine, which includes covert tactics, such as surprise attacks, deploying brigades at the border, naval blockades, and the strategy of fighting a limited war under a "nuclear overhang".

The tumultuous nature of the relationship between India and Pakistan have led many to speculate that it could prove to light the powder keg for nuclear conflict in the region. Prime Minister Imran Khan has frequently raised concerns of not only the Indian government's autocratic tendencies, but also their capacity to push two nuclear armed countries to the brink of war.