India-Pakistan relations worsen after deadly Kashmir attack

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalate following a deadly attack in Kashmir, leading to retaliatory actions and heightened concerns.

International media have reported a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan following a deadly attack last Tuesday in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Armed assailants attacked a group of tourists in the Baisaran Valley, known as “Mini Switzerland,” resulting in 26 deaths, including 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national, and at least 17 others wounded.

This attack, described as the deadliest assault on civilians in Kashmir in two decades, has been attributed to a group called the “Kashmir Resistance.” India links this group to Pakistan-supported organizations, including Lashkar-e-Taiba. The attack has amplified the already volatile situation in the region, which has long been a source of conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

In response to the attack, India initiated retaliatory measures against Pakistan. On Wednesday, India suspended the Indus Water Treaty (1960), one of the most enduring agreements on water sharing between the two nations. India announced that it would not resume the treaty until Pakistan halts its support for “cross-border terrorism.”

Additionally, India shut down the main Atari-Wagah border crossing, revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals, and expelled Pakistani diplomats. In retaliation, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian aircraft, halted trade with India, and expelled Indian diplomats. The rising tensions have raised fears of a broader conflict between the two countries.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, warned that any Indian action to divert or halt the flow of rivers originating in Pakistan would be considered “an act of war.” His statement underscores the critical nature of water resources in the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, Indian police demolished the home of Ihsanul Haq Sheikh, a suspect allegedly involved in the attack on tourists. On Friday, Indian authorities also destroyed the homes of two other suspects in the Pahalgam attack. These suspects were reportedly members of the group responsible for the attack. The demolitions have sparked criticism for human rights violations and collective punishment.

The Kashmir Police also issued notices identifying three suspects, including two Pakistani nationals, and announced a reward for information leading to their capture.

On the same day, there were reports of crossfire between Indian and Pakistani forces along the Line of Control (LoC), heightening concerns about a potential military escalation between the two nuclear powers. The United Nations called on both countries to exercise “maximum restraint” to avoid further escalation of the conflict.

The situation between India and Pakistan remains highly volatile, with both countries taking aggressive actions that could lead to a broader conflict. The issue of Kashmir continues to be a flashpoint, with the potential for further military confrontations. The international community, particularly the United Nations, has urged both sides to de-escalate the situation and seek diplomatic solutions.

The ongoing crisis serves as a reminder of the fragile peace in South Asia, where both countries possess nuclear weapons. The world watches with growing concern as tensions rise, hoping for a peaceful resolution to avoid a disastrous conflict.

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