India, Dec. 30 -- A renewed armed confrontation between India and Pakistan cannot be ruled out in 2026, a leading US think tank has warned, citing heightened terrorist activity and escalating military preparedness on both sides.

According to the Conflicts to Watch in 2026 report by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), disputes between New Delhi and Islamabad carry a "moderate likelihood" of turning into an armed conflict next year.

The report also assesses the potential fallout as having a "moderate impact" on American strategic interests.

The CFR notes that the risk stems primarily from the possibility of renewed terrorist attacks triggering military retaliation.

The warning comes months after India and Pakistan were locked in a f...