Deadly Kashmir Attack Sparks Diplomatic Fallout and Military Warnings Between India and Pakistan
Tensions between India and Pakistan are rapidly intensifying following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians—marking one of the worst attacks in the region in years. The incident has triggered widespread outrage across India, with growing demands for decisive action against Pakistan, whom Indian officials accuse of supporting the assailants. Pakistan has firmly denied any involvement.
In a pointed statement on Monday, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif warned that a military strike by India now appeared imminent. Speaking to Reuters from his office in Islamabad, Asif said, "We have reinforced our forces because it is something which is imminent now... strategic decisions have been taken accordingly." While he did not provide specifics, Asif confirmed that Pakistan's military had briefed top officials on the likelihood of an Indian incursion.
Pakistan, which remains on high alert, reiterated that its nuclear arsenal would only be used in response to an existential threat. The government has called for a neutral international investigation into the attack, rejecting claims that the terrorists were backed or sheltered by Islamabad. Indian authorities have identified two of the perpetrators as Pakistani nationals.
In the wake of the violence, India has taken a series of retaliatory diplomatic and strategic steps. New Delhi has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, downgraded diplomatic ties, closed the Wagah land border crossing, and revoked visa facilities for Pakistani citizens. Pakistan has responded in kind by expelling Indian diplomats, cancelling visas for Indian nationals, and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft.
Adding to the growing hostilities, India on Monday banned more than a dozen Pakistani YouTube channels, citing the spread of "provocative" and inflammatory content. The banned platforms include major Pakistani news outlets such as Dawn, ARY News, Samaa TV, Geo News, and Bol News.
The already fragile relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors has entered a critical phase, raising concerns in the international community about the risk of further escalation.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)