Tensions between Pakistan and India continue to rise in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists in Indian-occupied Kashmir. India has blamed Pakistan for the incident, a charge Islamabad has strongly denied, calling it a “false flag operation.”
In a series of retaliatory steps, both countries have begun recalling their nationals, with 120 Indians and 28 Pakistanis crossing back to their respective sides in the last 36 hours. Pakistan has closed the parade gate at the Wagah-Attari border and suspended all bilateral activities at the border crossing. In addition, Pakistan has ordered Indian citizens—excluding the Sikh community—to leave the country within 48 hours.
The diplomatic standoff has prompted serious warnings from top Pakistani leadership. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that the world should be concerned about the escalating situation between the nuclear-armed neighbours, saying it could lead to an “all-out war” if tensions are not defused.
“We will respond proportionately to any Indian move,” Asif asserted, adding that the Pakistani military is on high alert and “prepared for any eventuality.”
The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Defence also weighed in, condemning the Pahalgam attack while rejecting India’s accusations as baseless.
This developing crisis has reignited global fears of a potential conflict between two of South Asia’s most volatile powers.
