India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate Following Pahalgam Attack

The 2025 Pahalgam attack has precipitated one of the most severe diplomatic crises between India and Pakistan in recent history, significantly escalating tensions in South Asia. This incident has led to a series of retaliatory measures, military confrontations, and international concern over the stability of the region.​

The Pahalgam Attack: A Catalyst for Crisis

On April 22, 2025, five armed militants launched a brutal assault on tourists in Baisaran Valley, near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali tourist, and injured over 20 others. Initially, the Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility, citing opposition to Indian government policies in Kashmir. However, the group later retracted its claim. This incident marked the deadliest attack on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. ​

The Diplomatic and Strategic Response of India In the wake of the attack, the Indian government convened an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The committee announced several significant measures:​

India declared the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, citing Pakistan's alleged support for cross-border terrorism as the reason. India intends to reroute water for agricultural purposes and accelerate hydroelectric projects, despite the impossibility of immediate water flow interruption. India's diplomatic actions included the removal of Pakistani diplomats, the withdrawal of its own military advisors from Islamabad, and a reduction in the staff at its embassy in Pakistan. Additionally, all Pakistani nationals with SAARC visas were ordered to leave India within 48 hours. ​

Travel and border restrictions were in effect at the Wagah-Attari border crossing, which was the only land route between the two countries. India also suspended all visas for Pakistani nationals and advised its citizens against traveling to Pakistan. ​

The New Indian Express

Pakistan's Countermeasures

Pakistan demanded a neutral international investigation and vehemently denied any involvement in the Pahalgam attack. In response to India's actions, Pakistan implemented several countermeasures:​

Reuters

Suspension of the Simla Agreement: Pakistan suspended the 1972 agreement, which has been a cornerstone of bilateral relations. ​

Airspace and Trade Restrictions: Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines and halted all trade with India, including through third countries. ​

Diplomatic Retaliation: Pakistan expelled Indian military advisors and suspended visa services for Indian nationals, with exceptions for Sikh pilgrims. ​

Military Escalation Along the Line of Control

Indian and Pakistani forces are said to have engaged in skirmishes and gunfire exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir since April 24, 2025. These clashes continued over the next few days, heightening fears of a broader military conflict. ​

In a show of strength, India deployed its aircraft carrier INS Vikrant to the Arabian Sea, accompanied by MiG-29K fighter jets. Additionally, the Indian Navy's INS Surat successfully conducted a live-fire interception of a fast-moving missile target, demonstrating advanced combat readiness. ​

Domestic and International Repercussions

India

The Indian government faced criticism over security lapses that allowed the attack to occur. It was revealed that Baisaran Valley had been opened to tourists two months ahead of schedule without notifying security forces. As a response, the government is contemplating the long-term presence in the region of Army and paramilitary forces to prevent further incidents. The New Indian Express

Pakistan

The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty by India has raised concerns in Pakistan, particularly regarding agriculture, as the country relies heavily on water from the Indus River system. Experts warn that any attempt by India to divert water could have devastating effects on Pakistan's economy and food security. ​

International Community

The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Calls for restraint and dialogue have been made by various countries and organizations, emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution to avoid further destabilization of the region.​

Conclusion

The Pahalgam attack has significantly deteriorated India-Pakistan relations, leading to a series of retaliatory measures and military confrontations. The situation is still in flux, and if diplomatic efforts are not taken immediately, it may escalate further. It is essential for the prevention of a full-scale conflict for the international community to play a role in mediating between the two nations and encouraging dialogue.