Two days after a tragic shooting in Indian-controlled Kashmir left at least 25 people dead, New Delhi escalated pressure on Islamabad. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, sealed key border posts, expelled Pakistani personnel, suspended Pakistani visas, and advised its citizens against travel to Pakistan.
Islamabad described India's measures as highly irresponsible and legally unfounded, arguing they were imposed without credible investigation or verifiable evidence. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened the National Security Committee, which reaffirmed Pakistan's condemnation of all forms of terrorism but rejected New Delhi's attempts to link the attack to Pakistan.
In a sweeping counterpunch, Pakistan announced plans to:
- Close the Wagah Border Post
- Suspend certain visa facilities for Indian nationals
- Declare India's Defense, Naval and Air Advisors in Islamabad persona non grata
- Close its airspace to all Indian airlines
- Suspend all trade activities with India
This tit-for-tat escalation underscores the volatility of the India-Pakistan rivalry, with ripple effects for regional security, trade flows, and cross-border travel. For travelers, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads eyeing opportunities in South Asia, the standoff is a stark reminder of how swiftly geopolitical dynamics can shift.
As both capitals dig in, global watchers will be tracking whether diplomatic channels can de-escalate tensions or if the situation spirals into broader standoffs impacting millions on either side of the border.
Reference(s):
Pakistan hits back after India tightens measures over Kashmir attack
cgtn.com
