Tensions between Pakistan and India escalated sharply after Pakistan’s Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, announced late Tuesday that his country had “credible intelligence” indicating India could launch a military operation within the next 24 to 36 hours. The statement, made on social media, provided no evidence and has drawn global attention amid growing fears of conflict.
The announcement followed a deadly attack on April 23 in Pahalgam, located in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 26 tourists were killed. India has blamed Pakistan for the attack, while Pakistan has strongly denied involvement and instead proposed a neutral investigation.
Kashmir remains one of the most volatile regions in South Asia. Both India and Pakistan claim the territory in full but control different parts. Since independence nearly eight decades ago, the nuclear-armed neighbors have fought three wars, most of them triggered by disputes over Kashmir.
Tensions are mounting as India faces pressure to respond to the recent attack. In 2019, following a similar insurgent incident in Kashmir, India carried out airstrikes inside Pakistani territory, the first since the 1971 war. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to track down and punish those responsible, stating they will be pursued “to the ends of the earth.”
Pakistan, for its part, has promised a decisive response to any Indian military action. Officials warned that any aggression would be met with certainty. Meanwhile, global leaders have called for restraint. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to speak with both sides, stressing the need for de-escalation. China, which also has territorial interests in Kashmir and is closely aligned with Pakistan, echoed the warning. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that renewed conflict could destabilize the entire region.
In recent days, both countries have taken retaliatory steps. India revoked visas issued to Pakistani nationals, prompting Islamabad to do the same. Diplomatic missions in both countries have asked their staff and citizens to leave by April 30.
India also halted its participation in the Indus Water Treaty, a crucial agreement signed in 1960 governing water distribution from the Indus River system. Pakistan warned that any effort to block its water supply would be considered an act of war.
Military activity has intensified. Pakistan claimed it shot down an Indian surveillance drone in the disputed area. India’s navy carried out long-range missile tests to showcase its readiness. Cross-border gunfire has continued along the Line of Control for six nights in a row, raising fears that the situation could spiral into open war.
