Tensions have sharply escalated between India and Pakistan following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 people dead and 17 injured. In response to India's accusations of Pakistani involvement, Islamabad has announced a series of retaliatory actions.
From now on, Indian aircraft will not be allowed to enter Pakistani airspace. In other words, Pakistan has closed its airspace to India. Additionally, Islamabad has declared the annulment of the Shimla Agreement and announced the closure of the Wagah border. Pakistan has also decided to cease all forms of trade with India. It added that goods from third countries will not be allowed to transit to or from India via Pakistan.
Pakistan's National Security Committee (NSC) issued a strong warning to India, stating that if the water flow designated for Pakistan is unilaterally stopped or diverted by India, it will be considered a direct declaration of war.
The decision was announced following an emergency meeting of the NSC, chaired by Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.
The statement further said that India's unilateral move to cancel the Indus Waters Treaty violates international laws and responsibilities.
The NSC emphasised that this water is a lifeline for Pakistan's 240 million people, and that the country is prepared to take maximum steps to protect its rights. If the rightful water flow is obstructed or diverted, it will be deemed an act of war.
Other key measures announced include:
- Immediate closure of the Wagah border.
- Revocation of SAARC visa exemptions for Indian nationals.
- 48-hour deadline for Indian citizens in Pakistan to leave.
- Declaration of Indian military attachés as persona non grata.
- Reduction of Indian High Commission staff to 30.
- Suspension of all direct and third-party trade with India.
The NSC stated that Pakistan's armed forces are fully prepared to respond to any form of aggression from India.
Earlier on April 22, a horrific terrorist attack occurred in the popular tourist area of Pahalgam in South Kashmir, killing at least 26 tourists and injuring 17 others. Among the deceased were one citizen from the United Arab Emirates, one from Nepal, and two local residents.
Upon hearing the news, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to India. Upon arriving at the airport early on April 23, he announced that no one involved in the Kashmir shooting would be spared.
India claimed that multiple Pakistani nationals were involved in the attack, which Pakistan has completely denied.
