By Editorial Team 
On April 22, 2025, a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepali national. The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for this heinous act. India has accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, a claim that Islamabad denies
1. Diplomatic Measures:
- India expelled Pakistani military advisors from its High Commission in New Delhi and withdrew its own defense advisors from Islamabad.
- The Integrated Check Post at Attari was closed immediately, and Pakistani nationals were barred from traveling to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme.
- All existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals were revoked, and those currently in India were given 48 hours to leave.
2. Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty:
- India suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, a crucial water-sharing agreement, citing Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism.
3. Military and Security Actions:
- Indian forces launched extensive search operations in Kashmir to apprehend the perpetrators.
- The Army and paramilitary forces intensified their presence, especially in areas like the Bisaran Valley, to prevent further infiltrations.
4. Political and Public Reactions:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security upon returning from an overseas trip, emphasizing a strong response to the attack.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assured the nation that those behind the attack would face appropriate consequences.
In retaliation, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines, suspended trade, and warned that any interference with its water rights under the Indus Waters Treaty would be considered an act of war. Pakistan also suspended the 1972 Shimla Agreement, further straining bilateral relations.
The Pahalgam attack has significantly escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to a series of diplomatic, military, and economic measures. As both nations navigate this crisis, the international community watches closely, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.