Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated following a deadly attack on civilians in Kashmir — the worst in 25 years. For a second consecutive day, Indian and Pakistani troops exchanged gunfire across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border in contested Kashmir.
What Happened?
On Tuesday, gunmen attacked a tourist hotspot in Pahalgam, killing 26 civilians. India blamed Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba and named two Pakistani nationals among the suspected attackers. In response, Indian forces launched an extensive manhunt, issued bounties, and intensified security operations.
Military Exchanges
Indian forces reported “unprovoked” small arms fire from “multiple” Pakistani army posts overnight, prompting retaliatory fire. No casualties were reported. Pakistan has not immediately confirmed the latest exchanges but has strongly denied any role in the Pahalgam attack, dismissing Indian allegations as “frivolous.”
Diplomatic Fallout
Following the attack, India suspended the water-sharing treaty, closed its main land border with Pakistan, downgraded diplomatic ties, and canceled Pakistani visas. Pakistan responded by expelling Indian diplomats, canceling Indian visas (except for Sikh pilgrims), and warning against any disruption to the Indus River waters, calling it an “act of war.”
Global Reactions
The United Nations urged both nuclear-armed nations to exercise “maximum restraint.” U.S. President Donald Trump downplayed tensions, expressing optimism that the situation would be resolved.
Historical Context
Kashmir has been a flashpoint since India and Pakistan gained independence in 1947. Both countries claim Kashmir in full but govern different parts. Previous escalations, such as the 2019 Pulwama attack, brought the nations to the brink of full-scale war.
As the situation develops, the region and the world are watching closely, hoping to avoid another deadly conflict between two nuclear powers.