New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): In the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 26 civilian lives, including 25 Indian citizens and one Nepalese national, diplomatic and security tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated significantly.
The Indian government has taken a series of stern measures, including downgrading diplomatic relations with Pakistan, expelling Pakistani defense personnel, and reducing its diplomatic staff in Islamabad. In a strong message of protest, the Attari-Wagah border crossing has been closed, and the historic Indus Waters Treaty, a cornerstone of bilateral agreements, has been suspended.
Furthermore, all Pakistani nationals in India on regional visas have been ordered to leave the country within 48 hours, and previously issued visas have been revoked. Indian security forces have launched an aggressive search operation to track down those responsible for the attack, releasing suspect sketches and intensifying ground intelligence efforts.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has denied any role in the attack and labeled India’s retaliatory steps as politically motivated. The Pakistani government has convened a high-level National Security Committee meeting to chart its response.
The international community, including leaders from the United States and the United Kingdom, has condemned the attack and expressed condolences. Global powers have also issued calls for restraint, urging both nuclear-armed nations to avoid further escalation and prioritize dialogue. As the region braces for potential fallout, calls for peace and diplomacy grow louder amid rising fears of instability in South Asia.
