Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that claimed 26 civilian lives. The assault, which took place on April 22 in the tourist town of Pahalgam, has triggered a fresh wave of military and diplomatic hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
The Indian government swiftly accused the Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba of orchestrating the attack, citing intelligence reports. In response, Pakistani authorities denied any involvement and called for an international investigation, stating that the country does not support cross-border terrorism.
The incident set off a rapid breakdown in diplomatic relations. The Indian government suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani military officials, revoked visa services, and sealed key land borders. Pakistan reciprocated by expelling Indian diplomats, suspending air access to Indian aircraft, and cancelling bilateral engagements.
Within days, hostilities expanded beyond the diplomatic sphere. Cross-border firing began along the Line of Control (LoC) on April 24, with Indian forces reporting multiple infiltration attempts. According to Indian military sources, several militants were killed, including a high-ranking commander affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
On May 6, Indian forces launched a large-scale retaliatory operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor, targeting alleged militant infrastructure in Pakistan’s Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad regions. Pakistani authorities confirmed civilian casualties from the strikes and condemned the attack as a violation of sovereignty.
Pakistan responded with a series of coordinated airstrikes on Indian military installations. Both nations reported shooting down enemy aircraft, including surveillance drones. Artillery exchanges intensified along the LoC, displacing thousands of civilians and causing widespread disruption across border communities.
As of May 10, the situation remains volatile. Pakistan has since initiated Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos, targeting Indian airbases and strategic command centers. Indian officials have accused Pakistan of escalating the conflict and stated they will respond “with decisive force if necessary.”
Despite ongoing backchannel communication, no formal ceasefire has been declared. The conflict has already disrupted civilian life on both sides of the border. Schools and businesses in affected regions remain closed. The Indian Premier League has suspended its current season, and several foreign players have been evacuated.
The international community has expressed deep concern. Officials from the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, and the United Nations have called on both governments to de-escalate immediately and resume dialogue.
This latest crisis marks one of the most serious confrontations between India and Pakistan since the 2019 Pulwama–Balakot standoff. With no resolution in sight, fears are mounting over the risk of a broader conflict.
