In a move that reflects increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, both countries have canceled visas for each other’s nationals amid escalating diplomatic conflict over a deadly attack in Kashmir. Islamabad responded to New Delhi’s decision by issuing a warning against the suspension of a crucial water-sharing treaty that has existed between the two nations.
These developments come in the wake of an attack that claimed 26 lives in the disputed region of Kashmir, which India attributes to militant groups allegedly supported by Pakistan. Effective Sunday, India announced the revocation of all previously issued visas to Pakistani citizens. Furthermore, any Pakistanis currently present in India must return home once their visas reach expiration. Alongside this, India has undertaken various other steps such as mandating reductions in diplomatic staff, closing the last operational land border crossing, and halting a water agreement that plays an essential role in both countries.
Pakistan retaliated by closing its airspace to Indian-owned airlines and halting all trade relations with India, including exchanges with third nations. As authorities in India determined the attack had ties “across the border,” though no evidence has been publicly shown, a hitherto unknown militant group—dubbed the Kashmir Resistance—has since claimed responsibility for the incident.
In its defense, Pakistan’s National Security Committee denounced India’s aggressive stance, reaffirming its dedication to peace while maintaining a solid stance against any violations of its sovereignty. Hints from government ministers indicate that military action could follow; Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar suggested that any move by India would be reciprocated with similar force.
Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh vowed to identify and punish not only the assailants but also those who may have been behind the planning of the attack. He indicated potential military strikes as part of the country’s response. Kashmir remains a disputed territory, partially administered by each country, yet claimed fully by both. India perceives militancy there as Pakistan-supported terrorism, while Pakistan refutes this, viewing the militants as participants of a local freedom struggle.
On the domestic front, this incident has heightened pressure on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government to take an assertive stand. Modi has promised aggressive countermeasures against those responsible for the attack. As part of this posture, India announced that a number of Pakistani diplomats would need to vacate New Delhi while recalling some of its own personnel from Islamabad. By the beginning of May, diplomatic missions will downsize their staff, and India closed the singular functional land border.
Additionally, New Delhi suspended the longstanding Indus Water Treaty, which, since its inception in 1960 by the World Bank, has allowed both nations to share river waters vital for Pakistan’s agriculture. Pakistan retorted that any disruption to water flow would be seen as an act of war, with potential full-scale responses from their end.
Protests erupted across Pakistani cities, reflecting public discontent with India’s decision to halt the treaty, urging the government for retribution. Meanwhile, Modi’s administration’s earlier abrogation of Kashmir’s semi-autonomous status in 2019 already intensified regional tensions, though previous ceasefire accords withstood sporadic assaults.
Analysts outline India’s current bearing as indicative of deep-seated governmental anger, with New Delhi looking at tactical options to economically impact Pakistan. Modi’s administration faces growing domestic pressure to adopt measures beyond diplomatic sanctions. Experts such as Ashok Malik believe military tactics remain a feasible option for India. However, some argue these stringent approaches could limit future resolutions.
In Kashmir, the attack has left profound dismay, particularly since militants historically target Indian forces over tourists. Local protests and closures have become commonplace following the incident, reflecting public sentiment against potential economic repercussions on the tourism industry. Kashmiris remain skeptical and fearful as the political climate remains volatile.
These recent developments hint at possible escalations, with ongoing dialogue needed to prevent further deterioration in relations between the nuclear-armed neighbors.