India suspends water treaty with Pakistan after deadly Kashmir attack
- A terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, resulted in the death of 26 people, prompting India's government to take significant diplomatic actions against Pakistan.
- In response, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines and suspended trade with India, marking a notable escalation in tensions.
- These actions reflect a serious deterioration in relations between the two countries, with both sides now heightening their security measures.
In recent days, tensions escalated between India and Pakistan following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, mainly tourists. The attack, characterized as one of the most lethal in recent years, saw armed militants target civilians in the Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist destination. The Indian government responded by announcing a series of diplomatic measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty established in 1960, which governs water-sharing from the Indus River system. The treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan ceases its support for terrorism. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the Cabinet Committee on Security's decision to halt the treaty, emphasizing the necessity of addressing cross-border terrorism. Other significant measures included closing the Integrated Check Post at Attari, revoking SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme visas for Pakistani nationals in India, and expelling several members of the Pakistani diplomatic mission in New Delhi. This bold diplomatic stance reveals growing concerns within India regarding terrorism stemming from Pakistan, with groups like The Resistance Front claiming responsibility for the attack. In retaliation, Pakistan suspended airspace for Indian airlines and halted trade, following a National Security Committee meeting in Islamabad. Pakistan's Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned India's moves, asserting that any attempt to hinder water flow per the treaty would be viewed as an Act of War. Pakistan's actions mirrored India's, including declaring Indian diplomats as persona non grata and reducing staff at diplomatic missions. These developments highlight a significant deterioration in India-Pakistan relations, characterized by increasing tensions and accusations of support for terrorism. Amidst rising security concerns, both countries are now on high alert, showcasing a potential spiral into further conflict. The ramifications of these actions could extend beyond just diplomatic ties, affecting trade, travel, and regional stability at large.